Lot 111

There are some losses to the outer edges of the canvas, although this was likely previously concealed by the frame. There is a light surface scratch below the horse's head. Some surface spots and fly spots visible upon close inspection. Evidence of repair verso, near the neck of the horse. When looked at under UV light there are small areas that floruesce across the neck and body of the horse. Chips to frame. Overall size: 63 x 77.5cm.
(LEONARD JOEL CONTACTLESS DELIVERY $88 within 20km of Melbourne premises)


The opinions expressed in the condition reports are a guide only and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Prospective buyers are encouraged to inspect articles for sale at our pre-sale viewing where Leonard Joel staff are available for advice.
Leonard Joel makes no guarantee of the originality of mechanical or applied components. Absence of reference to such modifications does not imply that a lot is free from modifications.

Private collection, Melbourne

William Tell won the Oakleigh Plate in 1886, Newmarket Handicap in 1886, and the Standish Handicap in 1887 ridden by William Olds.
In 1887 Banjo Paterson wrote one of his most affecting poems, "Only A Jockey" inspired in part by William Tell. Paterson was compelled to write the poem after reading a small news article about the death of a teenage jockey, Richard Bennison. Bennison, aged 14, was tragically killed while riding William Tell in his training. The news article confirmed that "The horse is luckily uninjured".
Paterson wrote about the boy's death with pity, and a critical view of the news' perspective of the incident. "Only A Jockey" was originally published in The Bulletin in February 1887, and then published in The Man From Snowy River and Other Verses in 1895.