"To the Lovers of the Manly Art of Self-Defence!" Spectacular vintage miracle predates the Confederate Army's assault on Fort Sumter by three months, making it the only known fight poster printed before the start of the Civil War. Wonderful imagery of bare-knuckled, knickered pugilists gives way to text announcing a "Grand Sparring Exhibition" by noted boxers Bob Porter and Harry Blake of Philadelphia. Time, place and date are filled in by hand in the blanks left for that purpose. Poster also notes that, "Any person in the audience who desires can put on the gloves, and Set-to with either of the Exhibitors." Condition is just astounding for a piece of this era, strengthened by a fine, professional paper backing. The result is a solid piece with exactly the vintage patina and charm you would hope for in a collectible of this immense quality. Among the finest boxing artifacts we have been fortunate enough to offer.