Bob Feller original photo for Topps cards?

[Dewey]

Originally Posted by Mark70Z

Like I mentioned the back of the photo looks just like a match print photo that I have from Topps. Looks like there is a stamp or some type of writing on the back, or maybe just a red mark. If writing, what does it state?

I'll try the back upload one more time. Surprised it was so small last time. It is red print. "Bob Feller - pitcher". Mark can I see your image back to compare? Great eye on that left foot!

The majority outline and red print on the back had me wondering if it was used by Topps. I think Darren and Mark S. have a point about the bottom foot lack of outlining. But, truth be told, I don't know the Topps process from photo to artist rendition for the card, so I can't say either way. It has been a fun image to look into...and that's what makes the hobby tick for me. Thanks everyone for your comments.

[Mark70Z]

I have a better example, but can’t locate currently, but hopefully this one is at least an example.

[prewarsports]

What you have is a team issue, the red identification was larger with "Cleveland Baseball Club" that was trimmed off. These were sent to newspapers, magazines and to other ball clubs for reference. Doubtful it was used to make the card. Nice photo!

[Dewey]

Thank you, Rhys. Very helpful.

[prewarsports]

Lots of team issued photos were made, but since they were sent to newspapers and magazines, most were thrown away, lost, or are tucked in archives. Very few of these ever see the light of day or exist anymore and I do not remember seeing this one ever sell publicly for what its worth.

[laughlinfan]

Very nice image, regardless! I remember actually seeing the Topps artwork for the Feller Scoops card on eBay about 10 years ago. (Still kicking myself for not stepping up to buy it!) I do recall it was stunning, but I don't quite remember if it was a painting or a if it was a colorized picture through the flexichrome process. I guess in either case, the photo shown probably wouldn't have been used by Topps in the process for that card, although there are no doubts that it was created from a different version of the same (very cool!) photo.

[Dewey]

I wasn't familiar with the flexichrome process. Found this 12 year old net54 thread for anyone else like me. Thanks Marty.
http://www.net54baseball.com/showthread.php?t=84088

Originally Posted by laughlinfan

Very nice image, regardless! I remember actually seeing the Topps artwork for the Feller Scoops card on eBay about 10 years ago. (Still kicking myself for not stepping up to buy it!) I do recall it was stunning, but I don't quite remember if it was a painting or a if it was a colorized picture through the flexichrome process. I guess in either case, the photo shown probably wouldn't have been used by Topps in the process for that card, although there are no doubts that it was created from a different version of the same (very cool!) photo.