Horse Pastel Painting by Leslie Charlotte Benenson of Erin Star. 3/4 Bred Irish Mare Aged 18. / 1 June 1985

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The Equestrian Eye: Original Pastel by Leslie Charlotte Benenson
Dated June 1, 1985

This beautifully rendered original pastel is another … Read more The Equestrian Eye: Original Pastel by Leslie Charlotte Benenson
Dated June 1, 1985

This beautifully rendered original pastel is another remarkable addition from our curated collection celebrating the magnificent equine studies of the British artist Leslie Charlotte Benenson (1941–2018).

Executed on charcoal paper, this detailed study features a realistic representation of a brown or chestnut horse in a relaxed, standing pose. The animal is set against a soft, atmospheric landscape background featuring rolling hills and a blue sky. Benenson masterfully utilized the soft texture and rich pigmentation of pastels to convey the subtle shifts in light and shadow on the horse's coat, adding a delicate sense of depth and life.

The piece is numbered "2373" in the lower left corner. In the lower right, it bears a fascinating handwritten inscription by the artist identifying the specific subject and date: "Erin Star. 3/4 bred Irish mare aged 18. / 1 June 1985". Like its companion pieces, the pastel is elegantly floated on a charcoal gray matte, perfectly framing the raw edges of the artist's paper within a handsome light wood frame.

Measurements (Framed):
Width: 26 inches (66.0 cm)
Height: 19 inches (48.3 cm)
Depth: 1 3/4 inches (4.4 cm)

Condition: Excellent: This piece is now thoughtfully protected behind museum-quality UV glass to prevent the drawing from fading over time.

Historical Context: Leslie Charlotte Benenson's Equine Studies

Although her formal training was in sculpture at the Regent Street Polytechnic, Leslie Charlotte Benenson was a remarkably accomplished draftsman and colorist. Her deep-seated passion for animals led her to become a founder member of the Society of Equestrian Artists (SEA) in 1979. Her immense dedication to animal drawing earned her eleven Royal Drawing Society Gold Awards in her early years.

Benenson's approach prioritized realistic representation combined with a profound understanding of equine anatomy and behavior. Each piece is a carefully observed study, frequently featuring horses in relaxed poses that allow the viewer to appreciate the intricacies of muscle, coat texture, and expression. Her work remains a lasting testament to her lifelong commitment to capturing the grace and nobility of the horse.

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