2-982-306 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The Royal Yacht Squadron Regatta - the Emperor's Cup, 1858. 'When the Emperor Napoleon III. visited her Majesty last summer at Osborne, he honoured the Royal Yacht Club-house at West Cowes with a visit, and, as an acknowledgment of his kindly feeling for the members, requested their acceptance of a cup, to be sailed for as a prize, in commemoration of his own former connection with the club. Mr. C. F. Hancock, of Bruton-street, was honoured with his order on the occasion for the Napoleon Cup. It consists of a large silver tankard. The top is formed by a group of lion-hunters, the horse of one of whom has been thrown down in the fury of the combat. Over the fallen body the lion is making a rush with outstretched paw at the unhorsed rider, who is protected by his companions, one of whom is in the act of spearing the enraged animal. The critical moment of the combat is well represented, and the group is spirited, without undue exaggeration. Round the tankard are embossed garlands, and it bears the Imperial crown and monogram, with an appropriate inscription'. From "Illustrated London News", 1858.