Portuguese-Jewish, English Prizefighter Daniel Mendoza Colored Prints. London, 1788-1791

Daniel Mendoza’s ascendancy to sporting heights by means of his championing the theories of scientific boxing, led to his acceptance by Royalty - indeed, he received the patronage of the Prince of Wales. Subsequently, Mendoza helped ease the social position of the Jew in 18th-century England, proudly billing himself as “Mendoza the Jew.”

Group of four prints:

* Daniel Mendoza, three-quarter profile portrait. Colored engraving from an original painting by Robineau. Published January 1, 1789. This is thought to be the portrait which Mendoza sold at his Boxing Academy in Capel Court, London after he had been prevented by the Lord Mayor from charging for admission. Etched by W.N. Gardiner. (Rubens 1839) 10.5 x 8.75 inches to mat.

* Fight between Mendoza and Humphries on September 29, 1790, decided in favor of Mendoza. The third public contest between the two pugilists. Drawn by C.R. Ryley. Engraved by I. Grozer. (Rubens 1845) 11 x 14 inches to mat.

* The Triumph. Published January 17, 1788. Satirical image of Mendoza - injured and aided by an elderly Jew, with Lord George Gordon learning the Talmud in the background and the victorious Humphries carried above with inscription: “Long live Humphries the Victorious who in the bloody fight overcame the 12 Tribes of Israel, Hallelu Halle.” (Rubens 1833). 12.5 x 18.5 inches.

* Scene of boxing match between Johnson and Big Ben, Mendoza, acting as a second to Johnson. With account of fight written beside figures as dialogue. By Isaac Cruikshank. Published January 21, 1791 by S.W. Fores No. 3 Piccadilly. (Rubens 1847). 10.25 x 15.5 inches.

Provenance: Christie’s East, The A.L. Shane Collection of Judaica and Hebraica, June 24th, 1998, Lot 324.

Sold at auction, Kestenbaum & Company, New York, March 12, 2014.