Description

Title: Equine Portrait of Champion Racehorse Craig an Eran by Walter Herbert Wheeler

Description: Fine Edwardian Oil Painting – Equine Portrait of Champion Racehorse "Craig an Eran" by Walter Herbert Wheeler (1878–1960)

Subject & Medium:

A rare and beautifully detailed early 20th-century British equine portrait, this painting captures the famous bay racehorse Craig an Eran in a striking quarter-length side profile. The horse’s posture and expression are serene, its coat richly coloured and impeccably groomed—conveying not just the animal’s physical power but also its elegance and character.

Medium: Oil on board
Title: Craig an Eran
Signed: Lower right “W.H. Wheeler”
Date: Circa 1900s (Edwardian era)
Inscribed with horse’s name on lower left

Composition & Technique:

Set against a soft grey-toned neutral background, the horse’s deep bay colouring is brought to life with warm, blended brushwork and naturalistic highlights. The artist has carefully detailed the bridle, reins, and glossy coat, using a mix of short, fine strokes and smooth transitions.

The portrayal captures the quiet intelligence and strength of Craig an Eran, who is shown with calm eyes and ears alert, reflecting both energy and confidence. The lighting gently models the horse’s musculature and polished coat, giving the portrait a vivid presence.

This is an early and refined example of Walter Herbert Wheeler’s talent for capturing the nobility and beauty of sporting animals, especially racehorses.

About the Horse – Craig an Eran (1918–1945):

Craig an Eran was a celebrated British Thoroughbred racehorse and sire, best known for winning the 1921 2000 Guineas Stakes at Newmarket, as well as the St James's Palace Stakes and Eclipse Stakes. He placed second in the Epsom Derby and later became a successful stud stallion, siring important winners like April the Fifth and Mon Talisman.

Bred by Waldorf Astor, 2nd Viscount Astor, and trained by Alec Taylor Jr., Craig an Eran was from the sixth crop of foals by Sunstar and out of Maid of the Mist, a descendant of Sceptre. His lineage contributed significantly to British and European horse racing history.

Major Wins (1921):
2000 Guineas
St James’s Palace Stakes
Eclipse Stakes
Career earnings: £15,345

About the Artist – Walter Herbert Wheeler (1878–1960):

A member of the renowned Wheeler family of artists, Walter Herbert Wheeler was an accomplished British painter, best known for his animal and sporting portraits, especially dogs and horses. He exhibited in London, including at the Royal Academy, and his works have been auctioned internationally, with notable prices reaching over £3,000 at Bonhams.

Wheeler's paintings are admired for their attention to anatomical accuracy, lifelike character, and charming compositions. This portrait of Craig an Eran is a quintessential example of his dedication to sporting elegance.

Frame:

Set in its original traditional oak frame, which complements the natural tone and Edwardian character of the artwork.

�� Frame Dimensions:

Height: 32 cm
Width: 23 cm
Depth: 1.5 cm
Equipped with a hanging thread—ready for immediate display in any home, office, or gallery.

Provenance:

Comes from a private collection, notable auction house. Now offered by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD, specialists in collectible fine art, sporting works, and historical portraits.

Why You’ll Love It:

Original early 1900s equine portrait by a listed British artist
Features the iconic racehorse Craig an Eran – 2000 Guineas Winner
Naturalistic brushwork and expressive animal character
Highly collectible subject matter for horse and racing enthusiasts
Beautifully preserved and ready to hang
A charming, conversation-worthy piece for equestrian or country interiors

Condition Report:

Painting Surface: Good vintage condition, with light craquelure, some foxing stains, and minor touch-ups typical for its age.
Frame: General wear including surface marks, minor chips, and light staining, consistent with Edwardian period usage.

Reserve: $2,982.00

Shipping:

Domestic: Shipping rates are determined by destination

International: Foreign shipping rates are determined by destination. International shipping may be subject to VAT.

Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.

Location: This item ships from United Kingdom

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%

Equine Portrait of Champion Racehorse Craig an Eran by Walter Herbert Wheeler

Name: Equine Portrait of Champion Racehorse Craig an Eran by Walter Herbert Wheeler
SKU: 231882368
Price: 1400 USD
Availability: InStock