"Sabbath Breakers" Golf Engraving by J. C. Dollman, 1896

Presented is a famous golf engraving by John Charles Dollman, published in 1896 by the Fine Arts Society. The scene is described, at bottom right: “The Sabbath Breakers/ In 1592 John Henrie & Pat Rogie were prosecuted for playing Gowff/ on the links of Leith every Sabbath during the time of sermonses.” An iconic golfing scene, the print depicts the breaking of the acts of parliament with regard to the Sabbath.

In 1592, the town council of Edinburgh, Scotland decreed that none of its inhabitants “be seen at any pastimes or games within or without the town upon the Sabbath-day, sic as gowff, aircherie, etc.” Many instances were recorded of offenders of this decree being severely punished throughout Scotland. John Henrie and Pat Rogie, early martyrs depicted in this scene, were prosecuted for “playing of the gowff on the links every Sabbath during the time of the sermons.” 

John Charles Dollman (1851-1934) was an English painter and illustrator. Born in East Sussex, Dolman moved to London to study at the Royal Academy. He established his studio in Bedford Park where he worked as a painter and magazine illustrator for publications like The Graphic. Dollman exhibited at the Royal Academy from 1870 to 1912 and was elected as a Member of the Royal Watercolour Society in 1913.

CONDITION:

Good condition. Engraving. Paper is healthy with good margins, occasional  surface marks and scuffs in outer margins. “Painted by J. C. Dollman, R. I.” is engraved at bottom right and “Entered according to act of Congress in the Year 1896 by The Fine Art Society Ltd. in the office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington” is engraved into the bottom center. 

Engraving is framed with acid-free mats, UV glass, and a custom wooden frame. 

Framed dimensions: 25 1/2" x 34"W x 1 1/2"D

Accompanied by our company's letter of authenticity.