The Old Print Shop

Yorkshire Cricket.

  • ARTIST: Leslie Ward

  • PUBLISHER: Vanity Fair, London.

  • MEDIUM: Chromolithograph,

    DATE: Sept. 24, 1892.

  • EDITION SIZE: 15 1/2 inch x 10 5/8" ( 394 x 270 mm)

  • DESCRIPTION: The portrait of Lord Hawke, skillfully rendered by the renowned caricaturist Leslie Ward, known as "Spy," and printed by Vincent Brooks, Day & Son, Ltd., epitomizes the distinguished career of Martin Bladen Hawke, 7th Baron Hawke, in English cricket. Born on August 16, 1860, Hawke left an indelible mark on the sport, showcasing his talent as a right-handed batsman across 633 first-class matches, including five Test matches. Educated at Eton and later at Magdalene College, Cambridge, where he earned three Cambridge blues, Hawke's cricketing journey began with Yorkshire, where he became the most successful county captain in history, leading the team to eight County Championship victories. Hawke's leadership extended beyond the pitch, marked by a strong sense of duty towards his players' welfare, although his strict disciplinary measures earned both respect and criticism. As a cricketer-administrator, Hawke's influence extended to MCC, where he served as President and Honorary Treasurer, albeit facing criticism for his handling of controversies such as Bodyline. Despite these challenges, Hawke's dedication to cricket endured, reflected in his missionary-like zeal to promote the sport globally through nine overseas tours. His legacy, marred by public missteps and blunders, remains intertwined with cricket history, a testament to his enduring impact on the game. Lord Hawke's illustrious cricketing career, coupled with his administrative contributions, solidifies his status as a legendary figure in the annals of English cricket.

  • ADDITIONAL INFO:

  • CONDITION: Good condition and color.

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