Masterful Victorian Equine Portrait Oil Painting c.1840 William the Conqueror Horse in Stable by Samuel Spode

Details

Description

English Equine Masterpiece Oil Painting C.1840 Horse Portrait “William The Conqueror” by Samuel Spode – Original Oil, Framed Victorian Equestrian … Read more English Equine Masterpiece Oil Painting C.1840 Horse Portrait “William The Conqueror” by Samuel Spode – Original Oil, Framed Victorian Equestrian Artwork

Subject & Medium
This original oil on canvas, dated circa 1840, is by the noted British sporting artist Samuel Spode (1798–1872). Entitled “William The Conqueror”, it presents a striking side-profile portrait of a brown thoroughbred gelding standing within his stable. The horse is shown bridled and facing right, his anatomy precisely rendered through controlled, realistic brushwork. His black mane and tail contrast with the rich warm tones of his coat, while delicate white speckling along his back adds individual character.
The stable is depicted with careful attention to everyday detail, including:
A turquoise tartan blanket marked “WC” on a wall rack
A wooden bucket engraved with the same initials
A broom leaning against the stable wall
A straw-covered, cobbled floor painted with tactile depth
These elements create an intimate and atmospheric setting, typical of early Victorian equestrian portraiture.

Composition & Technique
Spode’s mastery of equine form is evident throughout. The gelding stands in a proud, composed posture, with muscle structure defined through layered tones of brown, umber, and subtle highlight. The brushwork around the horse is disciplined and exact, while the surrounding environment is painted with looser, textured strokes that add depth without distracting from the main subject.
The palette is naturalistic—golden straw, muted wood tones, and cool turquoise accents—contributing to a balanced, harmonious composition. The gentle fall of light reinforces the horse’s presence while maintaining realism and a sense of lived-in authenticity.
More than a simple portrait, the painting offers a quiet narrative glimpse into the life of a respected racing horse, shown at rest in his private quarters.

Signature & Inscriptions
Signed by Samuel Spode in the lower corner
Inscribed with the horse’s name, “William The Conqueror”
Original oil on canvas, unlined, with clear confirmation of authorship and subject

About the Artist – Samuel Spode (1798–1872)
Samuel Spode, grandson of the founder of Spode pottery, was a distinguished equestrian painter of the 19th century. Working largely on commission, he produced numerous racehorse portraits, hunting scenes, and military equine subjects. His paintings include depictions of notable horses such as Copenhagen (Wellington’s mount at Waterloo) and Ronald (ridden by Lord Cardigan during the Charge of the Light Brigade).
Career highlights include:
Contributions to The Sporting Magazine
Portraits of racehorses including Voltigeur, Birdcatcher, and Caractacus
His renowned work The Pinckney Family Coursing at Stonehenge
Auction results reaching $53,125 USD
A skilled horseman as well as a painter, Spode brought accuracy, insight, and natural presence to each of his equine subjects.
Frame
Presented in a newly fitted, traditional gilt moulded Larson Juhl frame that enhances the artwork’s period character.
Fitted with hanging thread
Ready for immediate display

Framed Dimensions
Height: 77.5 cm
Width: 90.5 cm
Depth: 5 cm

Provenance
Private equine collection
Smiths, 23 Anglesea Street
Acquired through a reputable auction house
Now part of the curated collection of Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD
Exhibited at the Famous Lord Hill Museum, November 2025

Key Features
Rare original Victorian equestrian oil painting
Named racehorse with signature and stable accessories
Rich, authentic early 19th-century character
Collectible work by an accomplished British sporting artist
Beautifully framed and ready to display
C
ondition Report
Restoration has been carried out by a reputable Cheshire-based fine art conservator.
Conservation: Raised paint stabilised; canvas reverse impregnated with wax–resin adhesive
Surface: Cleaned; losses filled, levelled, retouched, and varnished
Structural: Additional copper tacks added; missing key replaced; canvas re-tensioned and keys secured
Overall Condition: Stable surface with expected age-related craquelure
Frame: Recently fitted decorative gilt Larson Juhl frame
An excellent, well-presented collector’s piece showing strong decorative and historic appeal.
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