Eclipse with Groom and Jockey at Newmarket

Bred by the Duke of Cumberland, Eclipse by Marske out of Spiletta was foaled during the great eclipse of 1 April 1764. He was purchased by William Wildman (whose silks are worn by the jockey) at the Cumberland dispersal for 75. In 1769, Colonel Dennis O'Kelly purchased a half interest in the colt and made his famous prediction "Eclipse first, the rest nowhere." He retired undefeated having won eighteen races.

The famous portrait of Eclipse by George Stubbs is in the Collection of The Jockey Club, Newmarket (J. Egerton, George Stubbs 1724-1806, London, 1984, p. 83, no. 54.).