19th Century Engraving of Foig A Ballagh by Harry Hall

Presenting a fabulous and very rare, original early 19th century engraving after a painting by Harry Hall engraved by Charles Hunt, circa 1844-1845.

This original engraving is of “Foig-A-Ballagh”. ”The Winner of the Great St. Leger Stakes at Doncaster, 1844” shown with his victorious rider/jockey…Jockey Bell.
The engraving reports that of the 1844 St. Leger...there were 108 Subscribers of which 11 started.

Foig-A-Ballagh's breeding is recorded on the print as being "Bred by George Knox Esq. of Brownstown House, Kildare was got by Sir Hercules out of Guiccioli by Bob Booty, her dam Flight by Irish Escape, out of Young Heroine by Boget Heroine (Tom Turf's dam)'.

The Owner of Foig-A-Ballagh is recorded as "The Property of E.J. Irwin Esq.".

"To Whom this Print by permission is most respectfully dedicated by the Publishers.... S & J Fuller".

"London published by S. & J. Fuller, at their Sporting Gallery, 34 Rathbone Place ".

"Painted by H. Hall, Newmarket ".

This Aquantint beautifully captures the Winning Horse and Jockey that were victorious in the 1844 running of the Great St. Leger Stakes at Doncaster by Harry Hall, one of Great Britain's most renown sporting artists. Harry Hall was a contemporary of John Frederick Herring Snr and his Original aquatints, hand-colored prints areextremely popular and highly sought after. The engraving is presented under glass.
The use of the words "Proof" on the engraving lead us to believe that this is possibly the first ever print of Foig-A-Ballagh by H. Hall. It is common practice for engravers when the have made the original engraving plate to run off a "Proof" of the plate for the Artist's approval. If the Artist was happy with the 'proof' he would proceed to hand color it and send it back to the engraver and publisher with his seal of approval. Therefore, the use of the words "proof" on this engraving are very important and significantly add to the print's value and rarity.

Wear consistent with age and use. Near Mint. The engraving has been professionally framed in a dark walnut frame, with acid free matting and backing. Silver edging on the internal matte surround. The frame has anti-glare glass. The framing alone cost over $1,000.