Cheshire Antiques Consultant Ltd has dated this British Equestrian Oil Painting to the 1960s.
Subject & Medium
The canvas has a later board backing, providing additional support whilst preserving the painted surface.
Executed after Henry William Banks Davis RA's celebrated Victorian composition *Mother and Son*, this accomplished hand-painted interpretation captures the warmth, tenderness and quiet dignity that made the original one of the artist's best-known equestrian subjects. The harmonious arrangement of the horses against the shoreline creates a timeless decorative work suited to both traditional and contemporary interiors.
Composition & Technique
The composition centres on a magnificent grey mare watching over her chestnut foal, conveying maternal affection and protection. The artist has carefully modelled the horses with close attention to anatomy, proportion and subtle tonal variation, while confident brushwork provides texture and depth.
The shoreline, distant sea and softly illuminated sky create an atmospheric backdrop that enhances the peaceful character of the scene. Executed in traditional oils, the painting displays an attractive painterly quality and benefits from a later protective board backing.
Historical Context
Henry William Banks Davis RA (1833–1914) was one of the leading British animal painters of the Victorian era, renowned for his depictions of horses, livestock and pastoral life. His celebrated composition *Mother and Son*, exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1881, became one of his most admired works.
During the mid-twentieth century, hand-painted interpretations of famous Victorian paintings remained popular with collectors seeking traditional decorative art inspired by celebrated originals. This painting is an accomplished example of that tradition.
About the Artist
Henry William Banks Davis RA studied at the Royal Academy Schools before becoming an Associate of the Royal Academy in 1873 and a full Royal Academician in 1877. His works remain represented in important public collections, including Tate Britain.
This painting is correctly catalogued as After Henry William Banks Davis RA, reflecting its status as a skilled mid-century interpretation of one of his best-known compositions.
Signed
Bearing an indistinct monogram lower right.
The monogram has not been identified and the painting is therefore catalogued as:
After Henry William Banks Davis RA (1833–1914).
Size
Canvas
Width: 60 cm
Height: 48 cm
Framed
Width: 70.5 cm
Height: 60.3 cm
Depth: 5.5 cm
A versatile cabinet-sized painting ideal for country houses, libraries, studies and equestrian interiors.
Framed
Presented in a quality Larson-Juhl stepped gilt moulded frame and ready for immediate display.
Provenance
Private Collection.
Christie's inventory label verso (No. 11019336).
Acquired through a respected Lancashire antiques dealer.
Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD.
Condition Report
Oil on canvas with later board backing.
The canvas has been relined and remains in good decorative condition overall, displaying minor age-related surface wear, scattered foxing and light handling marks consistent with age. The painted surface is stable with attractive colour and excellent decorative impact. The Larson-Juhl frame is in good condition with only minor signs of use.
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Cheshire Antiques Consultant Ltd has dated this British Equestrian Oil Painting to the 1960s.
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British Equestrian Oil Painting of a Grey Mare and Chestnut Foal
