Lot 114
  • 114

A Staffordshire pearlware mug with the boxing match between Humphreys and Mendoza

Estimate
5,000 - 7,000 USD
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Description

  • ceramic
  • height 5 in.
  • 12.6 cm
transfer-printed and colored with the pugilists in the center, surrounded by umpires and spectators, inscribed "Humphreys and Mendoza. Fighting at Odiham, in Hampshire, on Wednesday / January 9th, 1788."

Condition

There are some minor abrasions to the rim and inner footrim. There are also some minor occasional scratches and small areas with some flaking to the enamels. Otherwise in generally good condition.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Catalogue Note

Daniel Mendoza (1764-1836) was a champion prize-fighter whose success helped overturn English stereotypes about Jews.  Mendoza grew up in Aldgate, London, in a family that attended Bevis Marks synagogue,  His first professional fight in 1787 brought him to the attention of the Prince of Wales, and he is said to be the first Jew to speak to King George III. 

This mug represents the first of Mendoza's three famous fights against Richard Humphries, his former mentor.  The third fight, in 1790, marked the first time that spectators were charged to enter a sporting event.  Mendoza, who was billed as "Mendoza the Jew," won two out of the three fights, and was Heavyweight Champion of England from 1792 to 1795.

A jug decorated with the same print is in the collection of the Jewish Museum, London, given to John Aynsley, Stoke-on-Trent; see Treasures of Jewish Heritage: The Jewish Museum London (2006), p. 23.