Object Description
Pair of English antique horse paintings by Sturgess
English, 1870
Canvas: Height 36cm, width 69cm
Frame: Height 52cm, width 85cm, depth 6cm
Energetic equestrian-themed scenes are depicted by a British artist, John Sturgess (1869-1903).
Titled ‘The Start’, the first painting showcases the start of a hunting trip. A wooden gate is opened by a man with his dog, through which gallops a large group of men on horses. All are dressed similarly, in white, red and black garments. In one hand they are holding a whip while the other is occupied with the rein. Most horses have brown colouring, however, some are white, the most prominent being the leader of the pack. In the background, one can see buildings and woodland.
Strurgess’ second painting is titled ‘Full Cry’. A very animated scene is painted depicting numerous horses, as well as a dog, jumping over a stone fence. Exceptional detail is portrayed by the artist such as the horses’ muscles, riders’ faces and shadows.
Both oil paintings are signed in the bottom left ‘J No STURGESS. / 1870’. A beautifully carved giltwood frame surrounds each canvas, the bottom centre mounted with a plaque stating the title alongside ‘JOHN STURGESS. 1870’.
Depicting two parts of the same hunting trip, the paintings showcase an intriguing story where horses take centre stage.