With recto photographer's identification of Taylor, Detroit, Mich. James John "Gentleman Jim" Corbett (1866-1933) was a boxer and actor. His father emigrated to the U.S. in 1854, but maintained ties to his home in Ballinrobe, County Mayo, Ireland. His son made a trip there in 1894. He studied boxing, and used a scientific approach to improve his technique. Some credit him with elevating boxing from brawling to an art form. "Gentleman Jim" is best known for his defeat of John L. Sullivan (by a KO in the 21st round). By the early years of the 20th century, Corbett, now in his mid-30's was beginning to slow. He eventually retired in 1903 and resumed his acting career, playing mostly in low-budget films and minstrel shows, sometimes appearing in blackface. This rare image is of Corbett as an actor, although the Sullivan fight was undertaken with both men in formal wear, so this could also be during his boxing days. Condition: Very good.
With recto photographer's identification of Taylor, Detroit, Mich. James John "Gentleman Jim" Corbett (1866-1933) was a boxer and actor. His father emigrated to the U.S. in 1854, but maintained ties to his home in Ballinrobe, County Mayo, Ireland. His son made a trip there in 1894. He studied boxing, and used a scientific approach to improve his technique. Some credit him with elevating boxing from brawling to an art form. "Gentleman Jim" is best known for his defeat of John L. Sullivan (by a KO in the 21st round). By the early years of the 20th century, Corbett, now in his mid-30's was beginning to slow. He eventually retired in 1903 and resumed his acting career, playing mostly in low-budget films and minstrel shows, sometimes appearing in blackface. This rare image is of Corbett as an actor, although the Sullivan fight was undertaken with both men in formal wear, so this could also be during his boxing days. Condition: Very good.
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.jpg "Source: Christie's")
.jpg "Source: Christie's")
