C1840 Horse Portrait “William The Conqueror” by Samuel Spode – Original Oil, Framed Victorian Equestrian Art
Subject & Medium
This original oil on canvas, dated circa 1840, is the work of noted British sporting artist Samuel Spode (1798–1872). Titled “William The Conqueror,” it features a powerful side-profile portrait of a brown thoroughbred gelding standing in his stable. The horse is bridled and facing right, painted with impressive anatomical accuracy. His black mane and tail contrast with the warm sienna tones of his coat, while subtle white freckling along the back adds individuality and charm.
The surrounding stable interior is rendered with rich Victorian detail:
A turquoise tartan blanket initialled “WC” hangs on a wall rack
A wooden bucket bearing the same initials rests to the side
A stable broom leans against the brick wall
A cobbled floor scattered with straw adds texture and atmosphere
These elements create a warm, intimate setting that highlights
...both the horse’s status and the rustic elegance of early Victorian equestrian life.
Composition & Technique
Spode demonstrates exceptional understanding of equine anatomy and character.
The horse is painted in a proud, calm stance with layered brushstrokes defining the musculature and facial contours.
The background is more loosely handled, giving texture and depth while keeping the focus firmly on the animal.
A harmonious palette of warm browns, umbers, golden straw, aged wood, turquoise cloth, and touches of brass and iron produces a balanced, realistic composition.
Typical of early Victorian sporting portraiture, the painting combines classical arrangement with observational realism. Soft, directional light highlights the horse’s powerful form and lends authenticity to the stable setting.
Signature
Signed by Samuel Spode in the lower corner
Inscribed with the horse’s name, “William The Conqueror”
Original, unlined canvas with confirmed authorship and subject identity
About the Artist — Samuel Spode (1798–1872)
Samuel Spode, grandson of the founder of Spode pottery, was a respected equestrian artist known for commissions featuring racehorses, fox-hunting scenes, and military mounts. Notable subjects included Copenhagen (Wellington’s horse at Waterloo) and Ronald (ridden by Lord Cardigan during the Charge of the Light Brigade).
Highlights of his career include:
Contributions to The Sporting Magazine
Portraits of racehorses such as Voltigeur, Birdcatcher, and Caractacus
His celebrated work The Pinckney Family Coursing at Stonehenge
Auction results reaching $53,125 USD
A passionate horseman himself, Spode brought technical knowledge and genuine understanding to every portrait, giving his works enduring authenticity.
Frame
Presented in a newly fitted traditional gilt moulded Larson Juhl frame that complements and elevates the painting.
Hanging thread attached
Ready to 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 through a reputable auction house
Now part of the Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD collection
Exhibited at the Famous Lord Hill Museum, November 2025
Key Features
Rare original Victorian equestrian oil painting
Portrait of a named racehorse with signature and stable details
Rich, detailed early 19th-century composition
Collectible work by a skilled but under-recognized British sporting artist
Beautifully framed and ready for display
Condition Report
Painting:
Professionally restored by a Cheshire-based fine art conservator.
Raised paint consolidated with wax–resin adhesive
Surface dirt removed; losses filled, retouched, and varnished
Structural reinforcement including additional copper tacks, replacement key, and re-tensioned canvas
Surface stable with typical age-related craquelure
Frame:
New Larson Juhl
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Internal Reference: 747
Antique ID Number (AIDN): SA1179134
Dateline of this antique is 19th Century
Height is 77.5cm (30.5inches)Width is 90.5cm (35.6inches)Depth is 5cm (2.0inches)
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