Wrestling/Paul Pons (1864-1915). Exceptional lithographed, c - Lot 287

Wrestling/Paul Pons (1864-1915). Exceptional lithographed, canvas-backed poster in two parts: "Paul PONS, holder of the Gold Belt, World Wrestling Champion...". By L.Charbonnier (the great cinema poster artist, little-known for wrestling Louis Charbonnier, 1874-1935) Each vertical panel is 148x100. This gives us a sensational image measuring 2m96 by 1m, allowing us to appreciate in all its fullness the immense champion, with his fang-like whiskers, sparkling eyes, bull-like chest and overall balance (1m95; 118kg)... All resting on lace-up boots to great effect. World champion in 1898 and 1907, 2nd in 1908, and 3rd in 1901, the champion had a long and distinguished career, culminating in the famous Gold Belt won after his triple victory in the competition in 1902-1903 and 1904. Minor restoration at the top, in the title, small stains, otherwise TBE. With the two tax stamps affixed during a performance in Toulouse. Circa 1905. Museum piece. For the record, this poster and the 1888 bicycle poster are two of the ten rarest and most important images of the sporting world.