Diorama. A Victorian diorama of "Jacko" the ratter c.1850

Sold for £3,100

Diorama. A Victorian diorama of "Jacko" the ratter c.1850, the plaster model of a terrier presented in a curved display case with a naturalistic effect for display purposes, inset with a circular silver medal, the obverse inscribed 'In memory of Jacko, the Champion Terrier 14 lb Weight', the reserve inscribed 'Presentation Medal to Canine Fancier and M.P.R. Jemmy Shaw London 1852', general wear and damage throughout, the case, 29cm high x 38cm wide x 13cm deep

Provenance: Collection of Jack Webb (1923-2019), London.

Jemmy Elton Shaw, also known as Jimm and James was a 19th century pioneer fancier of the early dog show days, a promoter of dog fighting and rat-baiting contests, a breeder of Old English bulldogs, bull terriers and toy terriers and a contributor in the development of fancy rats.

Shaw was the landlord of the Blue Anchor Tavern in Bunill Row, St Luke's, Islington and would hold rat-baiting contests in the basement of the tavern for spectators. He was able to maintain as many as 2000 rats in his tavern for upcoming events. Jemmy owned a black and tan bull terrier named "Jacko", the world record holder for rat killing.