Description
Subject & Medium
This Equestrian painting early 20th-century Victorian era oil on canvas, painted circa 1900, is executed in the manner of Herring’s renowned composition The Hunting Stud of 1845 (Tate Britain).
The subject is the hunting stable — the heart of British country sporting life. A group of 4 hunters of which 1 is a grey & 3 bay horses stand within a timber-beamed interior, their coats brushed to a rich sheen while grooms tend to them with quiet diligence. One inspects a hoof, another adjusts tack, and a third steadies a bay’s bridle. Behind them, two huntsmen in scarlet coats and black riding hats confer before the day’s ride, adding aristocratic presence to the rustic scene.
Over time, the painting’s surface has mellowed naturally, with subtle softening of colours through varnish and age, adding warmth and patina — the qualities that collectors value in authentic early 20th-century equestrian art.
Composition & Technique
The scene demonstrates careful attention to musculature, sheen of coat, and detailed tack, faithful to Herring’s celebrated stable scenes. Subtle light filters into the interior, playing across equine forms and illuminating them against the rustic warmth of straw bedding and timber beams.
The colour palette is rich and atmospheric:
Chestnuts, bays, and dappled greys give depth to the horses.
The crimson hunting jackets act as bold compositional anchors.
Warm ochres, siennas, and umbers define straw and timbers.
Soft cream highlights enliven manes, tails, and harness.
The brushwork alternates between precise draughtsmanship for equine anatomy and softer strokes for background textures. Stylistically, the work demonstrates the enduring appeal of equestrian subjects well into the 20th century — a time when country houses and sporting lodges continued to prize such images as symbols of heritage, discipline, and tradition.
About the Artist
John Frederick Herring Snr (1795–1865) rose from coach driver to become one of Victorian England’s foremost equestrian painters. Known as the “artist coachman,” he was patronised by the Duke of Orleans and Queen Victoria, who appointed him Animal Painter to HRH the Duchess of Kent.
Though unsigned, this painting was executed in his manner by a skilled Victorian era hand, demonstrating how Herring’s influence carried into the next century and remained synonymous with sporting culture and aristocratic refinement.
Unsigned
The painting is unsigned, consistent with many English School period works executed in Herring’s style. Its high quality and stylistic fidelity underscore his ongoing influence.
The Frame
Presented in a richly ornamented recently fitted Larson Juhl gilt frame with moulded detail and warm gilt patina. With museum quality front protective AR70 glass cover. The frame enhances both decorative presence and period authenticity.
Framed Dimensions
59 cm high × 80.5 cm wide × 4.5 cm deep
Provenance
Private equine collection, Midlands (Shire County), UK
With notable middle shire auction house label verso
Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD
Exhibited at The Famous Lord Hill Museum
Why You’ll Love It
A timeless equestrian subject — hunting horses, grooms, and huntsmen in an atmospheric stable interior.
Painted in the manner of Herring’s celebrated 1845 composition (The Hunting Stud, Tate Britain).
Rich, warm Victorian era palette with soft golden light and authentic patina.
Presented in an elegant later giltwood frame ready to display.
A perfect addition for American collectors of sporting art, or as a statement piece in a country house, lodge, or equestrian home.
Condition
Canvas: Original, securely stretched, stable with fine craquelure.
Paint Surface: Strong colour and clarity, some minor losses & paint touch ups to the outer edge sides background areas overpainting & some foxing staining in areas.
Varnish: Evenly toned, adding depth and atmosphere.
Reverse: Linen weave intact and sound.
Frame: Recent fitted gilt frame, excellent presentation
Overall: Good — stable, well-preserved, and ready to hang.
Reserve: $8,606.00
Shipping:
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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%
Oil Painting The Hunting Stud In the Manner of John Frederick Herring Snr C1900
Estimate $10,000-$12,000
Starting Price
$4,200
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Meet the Auction House
10502
4.5
54368
Sporting, Animal & Equestrian Art Auction
May 07, 2026 5:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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