Scott Leighton (1849-1898) Although American artist Nicholas Winfield Scott Leighton is best known for his paintings of horses, horse racing and barnyard scenes, Scott Leighton was also an accomplished landscape artist. At the age of 17, Scott Leighton moved to Portland, Maine, and received his early artistic training under Harrison Bird Brown (1831-1915). In 1880, Leighton moved to Boston to set up a studio of his own. He continued to be involved with horses and their trainers and produced many lithographs for Currier and Ives. Some of his paintings that were reproduced in prints included: On the Road, In the Stable, Three Veterans, and The Fearnaught Stallions. The artist exhibited his work at the Boston Art Club, Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and the National Academy of Design. Leighton’s talent and skill as an artist was so great, he was often complimented as the “Landseer of the United States.” This was a direct reference to British artist Sir Edwin Henry Landseer, RA (1802-1873), an acclaimed nineteenth-century artist who specialized in animal paintings. Unfortunately, Leighton met with a sad and tragic end. According to a New York Times article published on January 4, 1898:“Scott Leighton, the well-known artist, was committed to the McLean Insane Asylum to-day…Mr. Leighton’s condition was certified to by Dr. George F. Jelly, the expert on mental diseases.” The article continues to relate the event by stating: “Mr. Leighton’s delusion is that he is possessed of millions, and wants to build a great theatre. He also planned a big banquet for Sunday night, at which all his friends were to be present…As the time for dinner approached…Mr. Leighton put on his dress suit and paraded up and down the corridor of the Revere House awaiting the arrival of his guests. Then he fell to singing negro songs. The hotel rang with the notes of his powerful voice, which years ago was trained for choir singing. To Dr. Jelly, who examined him, [Leighton] said: “If I go to the McLean Asylum for treatment, Doctor, will it hurt my business or reputation when I leave it?” “Not in the least,” replied Dr. Jelly. “All right, I’ll go”’ the artist answered at once.” Scott Leighton passed away on the morning of January 18, 1898 from complications of pneumonia. CLIP SIGNATURE, approx. 4-1/2 x 2-1/8"..

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