Thomas Woolnoth

(British, 1785-1857)

Rare stipple engraving of bare-knuckle champion Henry Pearce, "the Game Chicken," circa 1805.

Plate caption: "Henry Pearce, well known by the name of the Game Chicken, who fought Jim Belcher on 6th December, 1805 for one thousand and forty two guineas. Dedicated to John Holliday, Esq., Captain in His Majesty's Royal Navy."

Engraved by Thomas Woolnoth after the original life drawing by William Armfield Hobday (1771–1831); commissioned by London printseller Joshua Lopez to meet Regency demand for sporting hero portraits.

Plate (sight): 9 ½ x 17 ⅜ inches

Frame: 17 ½ x 25 ¼ inches 

Good; light toning and foxing typical of age, archivally matted. The Period Hogarth frame exhibiting wear and minor losses to gilt liner.