British & Continental Ceramics & Glass - 29th April 2025
Lot 234
A rare commemorative 'pugilist' pearlware jug, c.1825, printed and coloured with a boxing match,
Estimate £300 - £500 | Hammer £630
Inc. Buyers Premium
Description
A rare commemorative 'pugilist' pearlware jug, c.1825, printed and coloured with a boxing match, with two contenders sparring before onlookers, titled 'Champ of England, Langdon [sic] defeated', beneath the spout inscribed 'Drink to England's Champion, the brave and Gallant Spring', the neck with a lustre band, some restoration, 15cm.
The mug commemorates the bare knuckle championship fight between the existing champion, Tom Spring, and the challenger, Jack Langan. Over 30,000 people turned up to watch the match which lasted for over 70 rounds and more than two and a half hours. Two of the spectator stands collapsed during the fight at Worcester racecourse, while others climbed the masts of boats moored nearby in order to view the fight for free.