This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/1/2002.
Vintage boxing collectors know full well just how difficult 19th Century items are to acquire, especially one as nice as this. Offered here is an 1899 bronze statute of "Turkey Point" Billy Smith, a turn of the century featherweight champion. The statue is stunning in its attention to detail, especially in regard to the face and hands. The shoes and trunks are also nicely sculpted. The statue sits on a 2-1/2" x 17" base with the artist's last name and year, 1899, engraved in it. The years have been kind to this amazing piece, which is in excellent condition with some light wear that has led to a greenish tone in some parts. This is mentioned solely for accuracy sake as it only serves to enhance the vintage feel of this piece of art, which stands nearly 30" tall. Murray was a personal friend of famed sports artist Thomas Atkins, who used Smith as the model for his popular "Between the Rounds" painting.