Spring Premier Auction 2016

Beautiful framed full color vintage print of the April 17, 1860 World Title bare knuckle boxing match between American John Heenan and Englishman Tom Sayers. Prize fighting was illegal in England but the upcoming Heenan–Sayers bout caught the public imagination on both sides of the Atlantic. Both fighters came into the fight in great condition, with Heenan coming into the match eight years younger than Sayers, 40 pounds heavier, and 5 inches taller. The fight took place at Farnborough in Hampshire on Tuesday, 17 April 1860. In a long, fierce contest Sayers injured his right arm and Heenan suffered a severely swollen eye through which he was unable to see. Still the fight continued an incredible 42 rounds, taking more than 2 hours. By then Heenan's face was unrecognizable. The end of the fight came when Heenan forced Sayers head against the top rope trying to strangle him. Total chaos ensued as the ropes were cut and the fans mobbed into the ring. Finally the police rushed in to stop the action. Under the circumstances the referee declared the match a draw, with both camps complaining about the decision. Beautiful about 24" by 18" full color print features the fighters posed for action surrounded by a huge crowd, some in the trees in the background, with many turned toward you so you can see their faces. This makes sense as it says right on the front that the image is made from the "photos of G. Bonner". Print produced by "C. Roker 9 Crofs St., Mason St., Old Kent Rd. SE". Print overall in great condition with some light water stains along the bottom left and right hand border. Vintage frame measures 20" by 25".