John Gully
(1783-1863), Prize-fighter, racehorse owner and politicianRegency Portraits Catalogue Entry
Sitter in 7 portraits
The prize-fighter John Gully's life story is an archetypal tale of social mobility. His career began with a notorious bare-knuckle fight in 1805 against Henry Pearce, nicknamed the 'Game Chicken', while Gully was in a debtor's prison. Organised by 'The Fancy' - the group of dedicated aristocratic followers of the ring - the prize for winning was his release from gaol. He later fought Pearce in front of a huge crowd which included the Duke of Clarence (later William IV). Despite several impressive victories, he retired to become a race-horse owner. His horses won the Derby many times and made his fortune. In 1832 he turned his attention to politics and became MP for Pontefract.
by Samuel Drummond
oil on board, 1805-1808
NPG 4817
by Unknown artist
mezzotint, early 19th century
NPG D35064
A Peeler and a Repealer (John Gully; Daniel O'Connell)
by John ('HB') Doyle, published by Thomas McLean
lithograph, published 13 March 1833
NPG D41183
by John ('HB') Doyle, printed by Alfred Ducôte, published by Thomas McLean
lithograph, published 28 March 1833
NPG D41187
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