'In Memory Of Jacko" The Champion Ratter C.1850

A rather curios Victorian diorama of "Jacko" the ratter c.1850, a plaster model of a terrier presented in a period glass dome mounted with its original ebonised stand. Jacko is mounted on a purple velvet cushion with gold threaded decoration. Mounted between his feet is 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',

The diorama came from the 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.

The plaster dog has a chip to a both ears and a crack to the tail, in all the piece is very much untouched country house condition.

Dome measures
38cm in width
20cm in depth
38cm in height