Description

Title: Equine Elegance Chestnut Hunter in Stable c1842 by Charles Bilger Spalding RA

Description: Timeless Equine Elegance — “Chestnut Hunter in Stable” (c.1842) by Charles Bilger Spalding RA

Subject & Medium
Presenting a fine early Victorian British equine portrait oil painting portrait titled:
“Chestnut Hunter in Stable” (circa 1842) by renowned artist Charles Bilger Spalding RA.
This striking equine portrait captures the noble form and spirit of a chestnut hunter gelding, painted in exquisite detail. Medium: Oil on canvas, set in a beautifully crafted gilt wood Larson Juhl moulded frame that enhances the artwork’s classic charm.

Composition & Technique
The composition centers on a chestnut thoroughbred gelding hunter horse in full side profile, standing calmly in its stable. With its gleaming chestnut coat, matching mane and tail, small white facial marking, and striking white-striped hoof, the horse is depicted with remarkable anatomical precision and lifelike presence.

The background reveals golden-brown straw scattered across the stable floor and a softly textured, partially paneled wooden wall, creating a warm, rustic atmosphere. The horse’s alert yet gentle glance toward the viewer adds personality and intimacy to this portrait.

Spalding’s brushwork is exquisite: delicate, controlled strokes define the horse’s musculature and subtle hair textures, while broader, more expressive handling in the background introduces depth, softness, and a painterly charm. The color palette glows with layered chestnut reds, honeyed browns, warm ochres, soft umbers, and muted shadows, creating a beautifully balanced, harmonious work. Spalding’s style merges realism with atmospheric richness, perfectly capturing the horse’s grace and quiet strength.

Signed
This piece is signed in the bottom corner by Charles Bilger Spalding RA and inscribed with the horse’s name below — making it a rare and desirable example of his early work.

About the Artist
Charles Bilger Spalding RA (1810–1871) was a renowned British painter celebrated for his masterful portraits of sporting animals and hunting scenes. He exhibited at the Royal Academy and his works have been showcased and sold internationally, with auction results reaching as high as $26,214 USD.

Frame Details
Recently reframed in a Larson Juhl gilt wood moulded frame, the artwork is beautifully complemented by this elegant and timeless surround, enhancing its visual and historical appeal.

Dimensions Framed

Height: 54 cm
Width: 66.5 cm
Depth: 2.5 cm

Provenance
Private southern Shire vendor
Notable high-end southern Shire auction
Collection of Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD.

Why You’ll Love It
A timeless equine portrait — a genuine early Victorian masterpiece.
Original signed work by a Royal Academy–exhibiting artist with distinguished provenance.
Rich detail, lifelike expression, and a glowing chestnut palette that will captivate any viewer.
Ideal for collectors, equestrian lovers, or anyone seeking a striking statement piece for home or office.
Guaranteed to impress guests, clients, and visitors with its elegance, craftsmanship, and history.

Condition Report
This painting is offered in fine used condition, appropriate for its age (circa 1842).

Canvas: Original and unlined; shows expected signs of age, including scattered foxing stains, visible craquelure (fine cracking of the paint surface), and some areas of paint loss and touch-ups. There are also noticeable frame stretcher lines showing through the canvas front, which is common in older works.
Painting Surface: Overall acceptable and stable, retaining strong color vibrancy and detailed brushwork despite the age-related wear.
Frame: Recently fitted Larson Juhl gilt wood moulded frame. As a handmade frame, it has minor imperfections, such as light marks and slight variations consistent with craftsmanship and handling.
The artwork is fitted with a secure hanging thread on the back, making it ready for immediate wall display in your home, office, or gallery.

Reserve: $8,100.00

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Location: This item ships from United Kingdom

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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%

Equine Elegance Chestnut Hunter in Stable c1842 by Charles Bilger Spalding RA

Name: Equine Elegance Chestnut Hunter in Stable c1842 by Charles Bilger Spalding RA
SKU: 231882349
Price: 4000 USD
Availability: InStock