After Chalon, Thoroughbred Stallion Selim, Arabian Bloodlines, 1840, Lithograph

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Antique thoroughbred stallion selim, arabian bloodlines, hullmandel c.1840 a distinguished nineteenth-century sporting lithograph depicting the celebrated thoroughbred stallion selim, one … Read more Antique thoroughbred stallion selim, arabian bloodlines, hullmandel c.1840 a distinguished nineteenth-century sporting lithograph depicting the celebrated thoroughbred stallion selim, one of the most influential racehorses and breeding sires of the early nineteenth century. The horse is shown walking proudly through an open landscape, its elegant proportions, refined head, deep chest, and powerful frame carefully rendered to emphasize the qualities that made selim a legendary figure in british racing history. The print was drawn and lithographed by h.b. Chalon and printed by the renowned london lithographer charles hullmandel, one of the most important printers of sporting and natural history subjects during the nineteenth century. Chalon was particularly admired for his ability to capture the beauty, character, and anatomical accuracy of horses, making his works highly sought after by owners, breeders, and sporting enthusiasts. Foaled in 1802, selim became one of the leading thoroughbreds of his era, achieving success on the racecourse before establishing an enduring reputation as a sire. His bloodline contributed significantly to the development of the modern thoroughbred breed and helped shape racing stock throughout britain and beyond. Portraits of celebrated stallions such as selim were commissioned not only as works of art but also as important records of breeding history and equestrian achievement. Although selim was not a pure arabian horse, the influence of arabian bloodlines is clearly evident in both the horse itself and the artist's portrayal. The thoroughbred breed traces its origins to a small number of imported middle eastern foundation stallions, including the famous darley arabian, godolphin arabian, and byerley turk. Selim's refined head, elegant neck, and noble bearing reflect these arabian influences, which breeders prized for their speed, endurance, and beauty. As a result, early thoroughbreds such as selim often possess an appearance that many modern viewers associate with arabian horses. The composition focuses almost entirely on the horse, allowing the viewer to appreciate its graceful conformation and aristocratic presence. The restrained landscape serves as a subtle backdrop while ensuring that the animal remains the undisputed focal point. Such prints were traditionally displayed in country houses, sporting lodges, libraries, and stables, celebrating the achievements of important horses and their owners. Today, original portraits of historically significant thoroughbreds remain highly desirable among collectors of equestrian art, racing memorabilia, and sporting prints. The combination of artistic quality, historical importance, and decorative appeal makes this an excellent addition to both traditional and contemporary interiors. Condition: age-related toning and occasional light foxing. Several small tears and losses confined to the sheet edges, particularly along the lower margin. Minor handling marks and creasing consistent with age. The image itself remains clean, strong, and visually attractive. Please examine the photographs carefully. Framing tips: this print displays beautifully in a dark walnut, ebonized, or traditional mahogany frame with a warm ivory mat. A narrow gilt liner can subtly enhance the richness of the lithographic tones while maintaining a refined sporting appearance. Particularly suitable for libraries, studies, country homes, and equestrian interiors. Technique: lithograph maker: h.b. Chalon, england, printed by charles hullmandel, london, circa 1840. This offering is for an original nineteenth-century lithograph, not a modern reproduction. Any framed room visualizations are intended solely to illustrate potential display options and may not accurately represent the print's exact scale relative to the frame or interior setting. See less