
Description
Presented in the original gilt frame with engraved brass plaque
A Celebrated Equestrian Portrait by Peter Biegel
Offered here is a rare and spirited original oil painting by the distinguished British sporting artist Peter Biegel, titled “Sketches, ‘Jacinth’ 1973.”
This exceptional work captures multiple studies of the celebrated filly Jacinth, one of the defining racehorses of early 1970s Britain.
Executed during her Classic season, this painting epitomises Biegel’s hallmark blend of technical mastery, movement, and atmosphere — qualities that made him the successor to Britain’s great sporting art tradition.
Subject & Medium
The painting commemorates “Jacinth” (1970–1992) — Lady Butt’s champion filly of Brook Stud, Cheveley.
Foaled in Ireland by Red God (by Nasrullah) out of Jaffa (by Right Royal), Jacinth was bred by bookmaker William Hill and trained by Bruce Hobbs.
Her illustrious career included:
1972 Cheveley Park Stakes Winner — Britain’s Top Two-Year-Old Filly (Timeform 133)
1973 Coronation Stakes (Royal Ascot) — Winner
1973 Falmouth Stakes (Newmarket) — Winner
Runner-up in the 1,000 Guineas and Sussex Stakes
After retirement, she became a valuable broodmare at Brook Stud, continuing the distinguished Butt family breeding line.
Medium:
Oil on Winsor & Newton “HERGA” prepared canvas, stamped on the reverse “HERGA – Prepared by Winsor & Newton, London.”
Presented in its original gilt frame with an engraved brass plaque listing Jacinth’s 1972–73 racing record — a hallmark of authenticity and presentation from the period.
Composition & Technique
Biegel’s “Sketches, ‘Jacinth’” is composed in his signature “sketch montage” format, an artistic device he perfected to capture motion, anatomy, and personality within one unified composition.
Across the canvas, he presents several views of Jacinth — head studies, galloping poses, and static outlines — which together convey a living portrait of power and grace.
The artist employs a warm and naturalistic palette of golden umbers, chestnut browns, ivory whites, and muted greens, offset by soft blue-grey tones in the background that suggest an open racing landscape.
The use of light impasto highlights along the musculature and flanks enhances the sense of movement, while delicate brushwork around the eyes and muzzle captures Jacinth’s alert, intelligent expression.
The fluid, expressive strokes in the background suggest open air and motion, while the finer, controlled detailing on the horse’s form demonstrates Biegel’s exceptional understanding of equine anatomy.
This combination of painterly freedom and disciplined drawing creates an image both energetic and elegant — a masterclass in portraying equine vitality and refinement.
Signed
The painting is signed “Peter Biegel” lower left and inscribed upper left with the title and date:
“Sketches, ‘Jacinth’ 1973.”
The confident, flowing signature is characteristic of Biegel’s hand during the 1970s and provides full assurance of authenticity.
About the Artist
Peter Biegel (1913–1987) ranks among the leading British sporting artists of the 20th century.
A pupil of Lucy Kemp-Welch — famed for her work on “War Horse” and the Newlyn School — Biegel absorbed her disciplined approach to anatomy and movement, later developing a more expressive, modern style uniquely his own.
He became a favourite of racing patrons, aristocratic families, and equestrian enthusiasts, receiving numerous private commissions from owners and breeders across the United Kingdom.
Biegel’s works are admired for their lively draughtsmanship, atmospheric colour, and acute observation of character, both equine and human.
His paintings frequently appeared in British sporting exhibitions and now feature in prestigious collections, including:
The National Horseracing Museum, Newmarket
The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, Saratoga Springs, NY
Various private collections throughout Britain and the U.S.
Today, Biegel’s art is considered among the most collectible of post-war British sporting painters — admired for combining classical training, modern vitality, and emotional resonance.
Frame
The painting is presented in its original gilt frame, moulded and finished with a brass plaque engraved with Jacinth’s 1972–73 racing record. With front protective glass cover.
The frame’s soft gold tones complement the painting’s earthy palette and evoke the elegance of its era.
Ready to hang — a perfect period presentation.
Dimensions
Frame: 71 cm Width × 56 cm High × 4.5 cm Depth
A superb, balanced size — impressive yet refined — ideal for a feature wall, study, or equestrian art collection.
Provenance
Direct from a notable Winchester-area racing family
Notable southern shire auction house label verso
Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD — Curatorial review and authentication
Exhibited at the Famous Lord Hill Museum, Shropshire — “British Sporting Art and the Thoroughbred Tradition”
The combination of private heritage and museum exhibition record firmly establishes this work’s provenance, cultural value, and collectible importance.
Why You’ll Love It
A signed 1973 original by Peter Biegel, one of Britain’s most important sporting artists
Features the Classic-winning filly “Jacinth”, Lady Butt’s Brook Stud champion
Displays Biegel’s trademark sketch montage style with vibrant natural colour and motion
Comes in its original gilt frame with engraved brass racing plaque
Exhibited museum piece with full provenance and documentation
A timeless investment in British sporting heritage and equestrian art history
This is not just an artwork — it is a living piece of racing history, painted by a master who understood horses both artistically and spiritually.
�� Condition
The painting remains in good original condition, with a stable surface, rich pigment, and no visible restoration.
The gilt frame shows light, age-appropriate wear but retains its period charm and structural integrity.
A vibrant, well-preserved example ready to hang and enjoy — truly collector-grade quality.
Museum-grade packaging for safe delivery
Includes Certificate of Authenticity and complete provenance documentation
Available for private viewing by appointment before purchase
A Museum-Quality Equestrian Masterpiece
Peter Biegel’s “Sketches, ‘Jacinth’ 1973” perfectly embodies the union of art, sport, and British heritage.
It stands as both a tribute to a champion filly and a testament to the mastery of an artist whose understanding of the Thoroughbred remains unmatched.
A rare opportunity to acquire a signed, exhibited, and documented original from one of the most respected names in 20th-century equestrian art — a true collector’s treasure.
Reserve: $18,731.00
Shipping:
Your purchase is protected:
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%
Lady Butt’s Equine Champion Jacinth Filly of Brook Stud Cheveley By Peter Biegel
Estimate $22,000-$26,000
Starting Price
$9,000
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Sporting, Animal & Equestrian Art Auction
May 07, 2026 5:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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