Painting of the Month - They have come to see me bat, not you umpire! W.G.Grace

William Gilbert Grace, also known as W. G. Grace, a man of many talents.
Born in 1848, he was an English first class cricketer, an outstanding all rounder, he excelled at all the essential skills of batting, bowling and fielding, but it is for his batting that he is most renowned.
What a real man, most would say.
He also qualified as a medical practitioner and he was also a champion 44-yard hurdler, a footballer, he loved playing golf, lawn bowls and curling.
What a real man, most would say.
He was an extremely competitive player and, although he was one of the most famous men in England, he was also one of the most controversial on account of his gamesmanship and moneymaking.
What a real man, most would say.
He also loved poetry, collecting and pressing autumn leaves and adored baking frangipane tarts.
What a real man, most would say.
However, don't be fooled, he LOVED being the centre of attention, a bit of a prima donna, a diva...
On once being given out LBW, Grace is rumoured to have said: "Play on. They came to see me bat, not you umpire." 
 What a real man, most would say.