After Eerelman, Holstein Horse Portrait,.1898, Lithograph

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Antique Holstein Horse Portrait 1898, European Warmblood Equestrian Lithograph This original antique colour lithograph from 1898 depicts Le cheval du … Read more Antique Holstein Horse Portrait 1898, European Warmblood Equestrian Lithograph This original antique colour lithograph from 1898 depicts Le cheval du Holstein, the Holstein horse, one of Europe’s most influential warmblood breeds. Known for its strength, athletic build, and elegant movement, the Holsteiner was already highly prized in the late nineteenth century for carriage work, breeding, and emerging sport disciplines. The horse is shown in a formal stable portrait pose, emphasizing conformation, balance, and noble bearing in the classical European equestrian tradition. This sheet is plate No. 12 from the prestigious Belgian equestrian series L’Espèce Chevaline à Travers le Monde. The series was issued as a deluxe loose-leaf publication rather than a bound book and consisted of 40 colour plates. Only 150 complete sets were produced, intended for breeders, collectors, and official equestrian institutions, making surviving individual plates comparatively scarce. The lithograph was executed after a painting by Otto Eerelman, one of the most respected European horse painters of the late nineteenth century. His work is characterized by anatomical precision and a restrained, dignified presentation of horses, focusing on breed characteristics rather than narrative scenes. These qualities give the image both documentary value and strong decorative appeal. On the reverse of the sheet is an original printed note reading: “Espèce Chevaline. Ouvrage contenant 40 planches en couleurs. Édition de la Librairie Néerlandaise à Anvers.” This verso text provides period confirmation of the series title, the complete set of plates, and the Antwerp publisher. Issued as a finished loose sheet, this lithograph was intended for framing from the outset. Today it appeals equally to collectors of equestrian and sporting art and to interior designers seeking refined, timeless horse imagery for country houses, libraries, studies, or contemporary interiors. This is an original nineteenth-century lithograph, not a reproduction or later print. Condition report: Good condition. Light, even age-related toning and scattered foxing, scratches, consistent with age. Colours remain warm and well preserved. No folds or hard creases observed. Minor edge wear only. Framing suggestions: Frames beautifully with a dark walnut or ebonized wood frame and a generous off-white or soft ivory mat. A wide mat enhances the formal, museum-like presence and works well in both classic and modern interiors. Technique: Colour lithograph Maker: After Otto Eerelman, Netherlands / Belgium, circa 1898 See less