Oil Painting Horse William The Conqueror by Samuel Spode Framed

C1840 Horse Portrait “William The Conqueror” by Samuel Spode – Original Oil, Framed Victorian Equestrian Art Subject & Medium This fine original oil on canvas, dated circa 1840, is the work of renowned British sporting artist Samuel Spode (1798–1872). Titled “William The Conqueror,” it presents a powerful, lifelike side-profile portrait of a brown thoroughbred gelding standing inside his stable. The horse is bridled, facing right, and painted with remarkable anatomical accuracy. His black mane and tail contrast with the warm sienna tones of his coat, while delicate white freckling along his back adds individuality. The stable is rendered with authentic Victorian charm, featuring: A turquoise tartan blanket marked “WC” on a wall rack A wooden bucket engraved with the same initials A stable broom leaning casually against the wall A textured cobbled floor strewn with straw These elements create a warm, intimate atmosphere that reflects both the animal’s stature and the rustic elegance of early Victorian equestrian culture. Composition & Technique Spode’s expert understanding of horse anatomy and character is evident throughout. The gelding stands in a proud yet calm pose, his musculature defined with layered brushstrokes in warm browns and earthy umbers. The paintwork around the horse is tight, controlled, and highly detailed, especially across the musculature and facial structure. Background elements—aged wood, straw, walls, and flooring—are painted with looser, textured strokes that add depth without detracting from the main subject. A harmonious palette of golden straw, muted wood tones, turquoise, brass, and iron details balances realism with atmosphere. Stylistically, the painting aligns with early Victorian sporting portraiture: classical in composition, deeply observational, and rich in narrative subtlety. Gentle directional lighting enhances the horse’s form while lending the stable scene a lived-in, authentic quality. Signed Signed by Samuel Spode in the lower corner Inscribed with the horse’s name, “William The Conqueror” Original oil on canvas, unlined, with identity and authorship clearly indicated About the Artist — Samuel Spode (1798–1872) Samuel Spode was a distinguished 19th-century equestrian artist and grandson of the founder of Spode pottery. Although lesser known due to his commission-based practice, he produced numerous racehorse portraits, fox-hunting scenes, and military horse paintings. His subjects included notable mounts such as Copenhagen (Wellington’s horse at Waterloo) and Ronald (ridden by Lord Cardigan during the Charge of the Light Brigade). Additional highlights: Regular contributor to The Sporting Magazine Painted famous racehorses including Voltigeur, Birdcatcher, and Caractacus Best-known work: The Pinckney Family Coursing at Stonehenge Auction records reaching up to $53,125 USD A skilled horseman himself, Spode brought deep knowledge and authenticity to each of his equine portraits. Frame The painting is presented in a newly fitted traditional gilt moulded Larson Juhl frame, enhancing its period character. Hanging thread attached on the reverse Ready for immediate display Framed Dimensions Height: 77.5 cm Width: 90.5 cm Depth: 5 cm Provenance Private equine collection Framed by Smiths of 23 Anglesea Street Acquired via a notable auction house Now part of the curated collection at Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD Exhibited at the Famous Lord Hill Museum, November 2025 Why You’ll Love It Rare, original Victorian equestrian portrait Depicts a named racehorse with signature and classic stable attributes Rich composition with authentic early 19th-century character Collectible work from a respected but underrecognized British sporting artist Beautifully framed and ready for display Explore Visit the Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD shop to discover more hand-selected pieces. Enquiries Please feel free to message us with any questions about this painting.