Description
Subject & Medium
A magnificent Victorian oil painting on canvas (dated c.1885) by British artist F. S. Evans, titled “Melton Bay Hunter Race Winner Derby with Jockey Fred Archer Up.” This historic work portrays the celebrated racehorse Melton, ridden by legendary jockey Fred Archer, set against the Norfolk countryside at Lord Hastings’s Melton Constable estate.
The details are incredible — from the horse’s gleaming brown coat and defined muscles to the delicate eyelashes and crisp jockey silks. Protected under a front glass cover and housed in a decorative gilt frame, this is a striking piece of 19th-century sporting art.
Composition & Technique
The bay thoroughbred stands in full side profile, facing left, with Fred Archer sitting tall in the saddle. The sweeping rural background adds depth and history, while Evans’s brushwork beautifully captures the sheen of the horse’s coat, the vivid whites and greys of the rider, and the charged atmosphere of a racing champion immortalized on canvas.
Signed
Signed by F. S. Evans in the lower corner — considered one of his standout works.
About Fred Archer
Fred Archer (1857–1886), nicknamed The Tin Man, was the most celebrated jockey of Victorian England. Champion Jockey for an astonishing 13 consecutive years, he rode over 2,700 winners and set records that stood for generations. Despite personal tragedies and the intense pressures of racing, Archer remains a legend in the sport’s history.
About the Horse, Melton
Melton, owned by Lord Hastings, won the 1885 Derby and St. Leger Stakes, earning his place among Britain’s greatest racehorses. The Times described his legendary Derby win as “a truly magnificent race… so close that until Melton’s number was hoisted no one could say with certainty which was the winner.”
Frame
Presented in its original ornate gilt frame, adding antique charm and elevating the painting’s visual impact.
Dimensions Framed
Height: 81 cm
Width: 99 cm
Depth: 2.5 cm
Provenance
From the estate of Stafford Ellerman (1928–2022), whose family ties to Lord Hastings ensured the painting’s preservation for generations. Notably, a companion painting by Evans is housed in the National Trust Collection at Seaton Delaval Hall, Northumberland. Notable Surrey based auction house, canvas back stamped Peroy Young, Slade School Fine Art Department, London & now curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD
Why You’ll Love It
A historic equine masterpiece with ties to British sporting history
Features iconic jockey Fred Archer and Derby winner Melton
A striking, conversation-starting display for your home or office
An excellent collector’s investment with provenance
Ready to hang and enjoy immediately
Condition Report
Fine used condition overall
Displays foxing stains and craquelure on the surface
Frame has age-related wear: dust, scuffs, and minor losses
Comes with hanging thread, ready for display
Reserve: $65,813.00
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In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Condition
Used
Buyer's Premium
20%
19th Century Oil Painting Derby Winner Horse Melton & Jockey Fred Archer Up
Estimate $79,000-$95,000
Starting Price
$32,000
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Shipping & Pickup DetailsItem located in: United Kingdom Offers In-House Shipping
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Meet the Auction House
10498
4.5
54321
Sporting, Animal & Equestrian Art Auction
May 07, 2026 5:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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