Striking original vintage Type 1 8x10 photograph of a young Ted Kluszewski, shot on the field at Crosley Field in Cincinnati, likely late 1940s. Kluszewski wears the navy wishbone-C cap the Reds used from 1947 through 1954, and his face is lean and young, pre-superstar, years before he became the most feared slugger in the National League. The industrial West End Cincinnati skyline is visible in the background, placing this firmly at Crosley and giving it an authenticity that studio shots simply don't have.

This is the Big Klu most collectors never see. Not the sleeveless muscle-flexing icon of 1954 and 1956, but the young first baseman from Argo, Illinois who was about to become something. He would go on to hit 49 home runs in 1954, drive in 141, make four straight All-Star teams, and inspire the Reds to redesign their entire uniform around his arms. This photo predates all of it.

Original period Type 1 print, 8x10. Blank verso. Condition is good with minor age-appropriate wear.