The Rules and Order of Cocking.
Vellum, Silver, Bone
In the Autumn of 1753 during a practice match at the Saint James Park cock-fighting derby, spectators cried 'fowl' following the warden's exposure of a peephole in the hood of four time champion game cock, 'Espuela Grande'.
The actions of the rogue cocker who perpetrated this injustice would tarnish the sterling reputation of the Westminster cocking confederation and the fighting cocks who competed there. An investigation shrouded in secrecy fueled even more distrust so the spectators and speculators turned their attention to other blood lust sports and wagered their shillings on bare knuckle boxing matches and bull baiting events instead.
To restore faith and credibility in the beleaguered sport of cockfighting, 'The Rules and Order of Cocking', sanctioned under 'sign and feather' by Master John Ardesoif on the fourth day of June, 1754, was officially ratified with a wax seal. To promote a code of impartiality and equality, the decree was accompanied by leather spurs, a thong, gaming hackles and a certified cocking hood. Master Ardesoif's efforts would not be lost on his former clientele. Cynicism was succeeded by optimism, pessimism was followed by promise, hatred gave way to hope and with that, the proud Saint James Park cockers and and their depopulated arsenal of game-cocks lived happily ever after.......
sort of.
_________________________
Recently rescued from a collapsed late 19th century Victorian era frame, the original 18th century vellum manuscript, spurs and accessories are laid to 19th century Victorian era paper supported by a wood panel. The hand written titles, inscriptions and dates of the same period. Now displayed behind non reflective UV glass in a simple custom milled Grade AAA clear walnut moulding with keyed corners.
Condition notes: soiling, cockling, minor discoloration, foxing
questions? Contact us at 415-578-8814 or info@colonialarts.com
Free Shipping. No minimum purchase necessary.
Colonial Arts offers free FedEx ground shipping within the continental US (lower 48) on all of the orders placed on this website. * Restrictions on furniture apply.
NOTE: Orders, bids or quotes requested via the phone or email will have shipping calculated at standard rates.
* Furniture orders placed on this website will ship at a flat rate of $100.
Questions / Comments? We can be reached at:
info@colonialarts.com / 415-578-8814
Colonial Arts
297 Kansas Street, Suite B
San Francisco, CA., 94103
Colonial Arts | 151 Vermont Street Street, Suite 6 | San Francisco, CA., 94103 | www.colonialarts.com