Description
Subject & Medium
A magnificent Victorian oil on canvas depicting Odin, the noble and intelligent Mastiff–Bloodhound immortalized by Sir Edwin Landseer, Queen Victoria’s most celebrated animal painter.
Painted ON June 1st 1899 by William Mitchell of Maryport, this remarkable work captures the spirit of the Victorian age — its reverence for loyalty, companionship, and refined natural beauty.
Mitchell’s oils breathe life into Odin’s calm power and soulful gaze, embodying both realism and sentiment in perfect harmony.
Composition & Technique
The painting presents Odin in three-quarter profile, gazing intently toward the right, wearing a thick black and gold collar.
A masterful interplay of light and shadow accentuates his sculptural form and gentle intelligence.
Executed in warm glazes of ochre, sienna, and umber, lending the coat a rich, natural depth.
Cool grey-green background balances the warm tones, creating a subtle atmospheric recession.
Fine detailing along the muzzle and collar showcases Mitchell’s disciplined brush technique.
The surface bears elegant age craquelure, adding authenticity and texture only time can bestow.
This is a painting of quiet majesty — technically assured yet profoundly emotional.
About the Dog – Odin, Landseer’s Legendary Companion
Odin was the beloved studio dog of Sir Edwin Henry Landseer (1802–1873), the foremost animal painter of the 19th century.
A Mastiff-Bloodhound cross, Odin was not only a sitter but a true companion to the artist, present in Landseer’s studio as he painted some of Britain’s most iconic animal works.
Landseer’s original 1836 portrait of Odin, now held in the Royal Collection Trust, remains one of the most treasured canine paintings in British art.
William Mitchell’s 1899 version pays heartfelt tribute to this legacy, capturing Odin’s noble bearing with tenderness and depth.
About the Artist – William Mitchell of Maryport (1823–1900)
William Mitchell was a highly regarded Victorian British painter specializing in maritime, equestrian, and animal subjects.
A native of Maryport, Cumbria, his works reflect a profound connection to nature, the sea, and the living spirit of animals.
Exhibited regionally and in Somerset House, with growing interest among collectors of British realism.
Mitchell’s animal portraits are renowned for their warmth and precision — the mark of an artist both technically skilled and emotionally attuned.
This work represents one of his most evocative subjects, merging the technical discipline of Victorian realism with Landseer’s emotional legacy.
Signed & Inscribed
Verso inscription by the artist reads:
“Odin / Landseer’s famous Bloodhound / W. Mitchell / June 1st 1899.”
Unsigned on the front, consistent with Mitchell’s practice for commissioned homage works.
Significance
This painting stands as a bridge between two master traditions — the romantic naturalism of Landseer and the late-Victorian realism of Mitchell.
It reflects the timeless human admiration for loyalty and companionship, embodying the spirit of the Victorian home and the British country ideal.
An authentic 19th-century oil from an accomplished artist, Odin is both a collector’s treasure and a decorative triumph for refined interiors.
Frame
Set within its original giltwood frame, richly carved with scrolling foliate and floral motifs.
The frame retains its original gold patina, professionally restored to preserve its historic integrity.
Together, frame and canvas form a unified statement of late-Victorian artistry.
Dimensions Framed
Frame: 80 cm × 80 cm × 8 cm (31.5 × 31.5 × 3 in)
A commanding yet intimate display size ideal for grand entryways, libraries, or executive offices.
Provenance
Verso inscription dated June 1st, 1899, by William Mitchell of Maryport
Formerly held in a private Shire-based English collection
Notable middle shire auction house
Exhibited at the Famous Lord Hill Museum, England
Presented by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD.
Accompanied by provenance documentation and condition report
Why You’ll Love It
A museum-quality Victorian masterpiece linked to Sir Edwin Landseer’s iconic Odin
A rare 1899 tribute painting by a documented British artist
Symbolizes loyalty, intelligence, and devotion — eternal themes of human and animal kinship
Rich period authenticity — craquelure, gilt frame, and 19th-century patina
Perfect centerpiece for luxury interiors or fine art collections
Investment potential with cross-appeal among collectors of British realism and canine art
Represents a genuine connection to the Royal Collection legacy
A statement of taste and heritage, certain to captivate guests and clients alike
Condition Report
Offered in fine used condition.
There is some tension loss to the canvas and an old repair patch verso.
The paint surface has light surface-level craquelure throughout, with minor paint flake losses toward the top of the painting and occasional scuffs or scratches to the dog’s face.
There are paint touch-ups to the background area on the far left side and above the dog’s head.
The frame mount shows cracks, general wear, and small losses, along with repairs consistent with age and use.
The inner frame has been recently overpainted, and there are touch-ups to the outer frame.
Stable overall and ready for immediate display.
Add this notable loyal canine animal masterpiece to your collection today.
Reserve: $10,125.00
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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
15%
Victorian Masterpiece Oil Painting Landseer's Mastiff Bloodhound Prized Dog Odin
Estimate $12,000-$14,000
Starting Price
$5,000
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Sporting, Animal & Equestrian Art Auction
May 07, 2026 5:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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