After John Hamilton Mortimer, A.R.A.

By whom sold, London, Christie's South Kensigton, Seend Green House sale, 19 September 1988, lot 338 (as John Hamilton Mortimer).

Canvas has been lined. Some spot of surface dirt otherwise the work appears in good overall condition. Ultraviolet light reveals an opaque varnish. There are some spots of retouching along the edges, and appear to be older spots to the background of the picture. Held in a gilt plaster frame.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

After the possible original by Mortimer, sold London, Christie's, 3 July 1964, lot 69, reproduced p. 25.

George Stevenson, known as the "Coachman" challanged Jack Broughton but was defeated in a fourty-five minute fight at Stevenson's Gymnasium near Tottenham Court Road in February 1741. It was Broughton who first drew up a set of rules which provided the foundation for those sponsored by the Marquis of Queensberry, and which governed boxing from 1743 till 1838.  He also invented the boxing glove and was undisputed champion from 1729 to 1750.  He died in London in 1789. 

See H.D. Miles, Pugilistica, vol. 1, p. 22, for a description of the fight and for analysis of the various versions and copies of this image please see J. Sunderland, "John Hamilton Mortimer, his life and works," in Walpole Society, London 1986, vol. 52, p. 223, cat. no R19b.