George Stubbs (1724-1806) was an English painter known for his remarkable depictions of horses, as well as other animals, sporting scenes, and portraits. He is considered one of the finest equestrian artists in the history of Western art. Here are some key points about George Stubbs and his contributions to art:1. **Early Life and Background**: George Stubbs was born in Liverpool, England. He was largely self-taught as an artist, with little formal training. He initially worked as a portrait painter and later developed a passion for anatomy and the study of horses.2. **Scientific Approach**: Stubbs was not only an artist but also a keen anatomist. He conducted in-depth studies of horse anatomy, which included dissections and careful observations of the skeletal and muscular structures of horses. His scientific approach to art made his horse paintings highly accurate and detailed.3. **Equestrian Art**: George Stubbs is best known for his equestrian art, particularly his horse portraits. His paintings of horses are characterized by their meticulous attention to anatomical detail and a keen understanding of the equine form. His ability to capture the majesty and grace of horses made him a sought-after artist in this genre.4. **"Whistlejacket"**: One of Stubbs' most famous works is "Whistlejacket," a life-sized portrait of a racehorse owned by the Marquess of Rockingham. The painting is known for its dramatic and dynamic portrayal of the horse in mid-gallop.5. **Portraits and Sporting Scenes**: In addition to horse portraits, Stubbs also painted portraits of racehorses and their owners. He frequently depicted sporting scenes, including hunting, shooting, and racing, often with great attention to the details of clothing, animals, and landscapes.6. **Recognition**: Stubbs gained recognition and patronage from British aristocrats and nobility who were passionate about horses and hunting. His artistic prowess and anatomical expertise earned him a respected place in the art world.7. **Later Career**: Later in his career, Stubbs expanded his subject matter to include other animals, such as dogs, lions, and exotic animals like kangaroos and zebras, which he painted from anatomical studies and from descriptions provided by travelers.8. **Legacy**: George Stubbs' contributions to equestrian art and his meticulous anatomical studies of horses have left a lasting legacy. His work continues to be admired by art enthusiasts and is a valuable resource for those interested in the anatomy of animals.9. **Literary Contributions**: Stubbs also authored a book titled "The Anatomy of the Horse," which was published in 1766. The book, accompanied by detailed engravings, remains an important reference in the field of equine anatomy.George Stubbs' mastery of horse painting and his scientific approach to art made him a unique and influential figure in the world of 18th-century British art. His paintings are celebrated for their precision, accuracy, and the beauty they bring to the world of equestrian art.
Measures 20 x 24.
Oil on canvas.
Sold "after" Stubbs.