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Photographic Print : James Polkinghorne, the Cornish Wrestler, Artist Unknown

James Polkinghorne, the Cornish Wrestler, Artist Unknown




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Royal Cornwall Museum

Photo Prints From Royal Cornwall Museum

James Polkinghorne, the Cornish Wrestler, Artist Unknown

Oil on canvas, English School, 19th century. In the 15th century, wrestling was the national sport of Cornwall and historical sources have written that, at the Battle of Agincourt in 1415, Cornish men fought under a banner depicting two wrestlers in a lock. James Polkinghorne (1788-1854) was one of Cornwalls greatest wrestlers and his best known match, against Abraham Cann of Colebrooke in Devon, happened on 23rd October 1826 and attracted over 10, 000 spectators. Though the fight finished a draw, it was not without drama and Canns biographer relates the match in detail, noting the different Cornish and Devon styles of wrestling. The fight became so famous that a folk song was written about the event. As a Cornish wrestler, Polkinghorne was known as a hugger who fought barefoot, whereas his adversary dressed in the traditional Devon style, with heavy boots soaked in bullocks blood

Royal Cornwall Museum is the UK's Greatest Museum For Cornish Life & Culture

TRURI : 1935.12

Media ID 19649910

© RIC

Artist Artwork Black Blue Brown Chair Cornwall English Gentleman Painting Sport Waistcoat White Wrestle Burns Chops Cravat Mutton Sportsman


10"x8" Photo Print

Introducing the Media Storehouse range of Photographic Prints featuring the captivating image of James Polkinghorne, the Cornish Wrestler. Hailing from the Royal Cornwall Museum, this 19th century oil on canvas painting is a testament to the rich history and heritage of Cornwall. As the national sport in the 15th century, wrestling played a significant role in Cornish culture, with historical sources documenting the Cornish wrestlers' participation in the Battle of Agincourt in 1415. Bring this piece of history into your home or office with our high-quality photographic print, expertly reproduced to preserve the intricate details and vibrant colors of the original artwork. A perfect addition to any space, this print is sure to inspire and intrigue all who see it.

Photo prints are produced on Kodak professional photo paper resulting in timeless and breath-taking prints which are also ideal for framing. The colors produced are rich and vivid, with accurate blacks and pristine whites, resulting in prints that are truly timeless and magnificent. Whether you're looking to display your prints in your home, office, or gallery, our range of photographic prints are sure to impress. Dimensions refers to the size of the paper in inches.

Our Photo Prints are in a large range of sizes and are printed on Archival Quality Paper for excellent colour reproduction and longevity. They are ideal for framing (our Framed Prints use these) at a reasonable cost. Alternatives include cheaper Poster Prints and higher quality Fine Art Paper, the choice of which is largely dependant on your budget.

Estimated Product Size is 20.3cm x 25.4cm (8" x 10")

These are individually made so all sizes are approximate

Artwork printed orientated as per the preview above, with landscape (horizontal) or portrait (vertical) orientation to match the source image.


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> Arts > Artists > Related Images

> Europe > United Kingdom > England > Cornwall > Related Images

> Europe > United Kingdom > England > Devon > Related Images

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> Historic > Battles > Related Images

> Popular Themes > Devon


EDITORS COMMENTS
This 19th-century oil on canvas print showcases the enigmatic figure of James Polkinghorne, the legendary Cornish Wrestler. Wrestling held a significant place in Cornwall's history, with tales dating back to the Battle of Agincourt in 1415, where Cornish men fought valiantly under a banner depicting two wrestlers locked in combat. James Polkinghorne, born in 1788 and revered as one of Cornwall's greatest wrestlers, left an indelible mark on the sport. His most renowned match took place on October 23rd, 1826 against Abraham Cann from Devon. This monumental event attracted an astonishing crowd of over 10,000 spectators who eagerly awaited their clash. Although the fight ended in a draw, it was not devoid of excitement and intensity. Cann's biographer meticulously detailed this historic encounter, highlighting the contrasting wrestling styles between Cornwall and Devon. The match gained such prominence that it inspired a folk song commemorating its significance. In this portrait captured by an unknown English artist from the same era, we see Polkinghorne portrayed as a rugged yet dignified sportsman. Dressed simply in blue and white attire with touches of black and brown hues accentuating his robust physique; he sits confidently upon a chair at his side. Polkinghorne's distinctive features are emphasized - burns etched into his weathered skin tell stories of countless battles fought within wrestling rings while mutton chops frame his determined expression. A waistcoat adorned with a cravat completes his gentlemanly appearance. This remarkable artwork preserves both the legacy of James Polkinghorne and Cornwall's rich sporting heritage for generations to come.

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