Description
Rare Signed Antique Sporting Scene | Original Gilt Frame | Provenance & COA
Subject & Medium
Titled “Angling – Landing a Northern Pike Fish Caught at River with Gaff Pole”, this dynamic 19th-century oil painting C1890 by Arthur Roland Knight (1845–1914) captures the drama of British freshwater fishing at its finest.
A large northern pike bursts from the water’s surface, caught at the river’s edge with a gaff pole. The scene is framed by tall reeds and distant landscape under a soft, clouded sky. This tense moment is rendered with meticulous detail and deep understanding of the sport — a true tribute to Victorian angling. Medium: Oil on canvas (professionally relined).
Composition & Technique
Knight’s expertise shines in the composition’s diagonal tension — the arching pike, thrusting gaff, and rippling waterpull the eye into the heart of the action. Muted greens and browns echo nature’s palette, with golden highlights on the fish and glimpses of blue sky adding contrast and drama. Fine brushwork in the fish and reeds contrasts beautifully with looser background strokes, creating depth, motion, and mood.
Original Victorian Frame
The painting is presented in its original ornate gilt frame, richly stepped with beaded edge typical of the Victorian period.
Frame Dimensions: 29 cm (H) × 34 cm (W) × 3.5 cm (D)
Artist-Signed Original
Signed in the lower corner by Arthur Roland Knight, this mark confirms the work’s authenticity and adds collectible value. A genuine signature by the artist connects the viewer directly to Knight's hand and legacy—an important feature for any serious collector of Victorian landscapes.
About the Artist – Arthur Roland Knight
Arthur Roland Knight was a prominent Victorian sporting artist, famed for lifelike depictions of trout, pike, and river scenes. An avid fisherman himself, Knight infused each canvas with authenticity, anatomical accuracy, and narrative tension. His work has been widely exhibited and is held in public collections including the Chertsey Museum and Vestry House Museum.
Provenance & Exhibition History
From a private Southern England collection
Sold via high-end Dorset Fine Art Auction
Museum Exhibited
Offered by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD
Includes Certificate of Authenticity (COA)
A well-documented painting with strong provenance and institutional exhibition history.
Condition Report
Good antique condition
Minor foxing, craquelure, small paint loss (top corner)
Canvas relined to preserve structural integrity
Original frame shows age-related scuffs and wear
Rear reinforced with staples for stability
Ready to hang and display with timeless Victorian character.
Why Buy This Painting?
Signed by listed British sporting artist Arthur Roland Knight
Dramatic pike fishing scene – rich in detail & movement
Original Victorian gilt frame adds charm & value
Perfect size – ideal for study, gallery, or collection wall
Appeals to art collectors, anglers & fans of Victorian naturalism
Reserve: $3,139.00
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%
Angling Oil Painting Northern Pike Surfacing Caught By Arthur Roland Knight 1890
Estimate $4,000-$5,000
Starting Price
$1,500
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Shipping & Pickup DetailsItem located in: United Kingdom Offers In-House Shipping
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Meet the Auction House
10501
4.5
54349
Sporting, Animal & Equestrian Art Auction
May 07, 2026 5:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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