Early Victorian Equestrian Oil Painting William The Conqueror By Samuel Spode

C.1840 Horse Portrait “William The Conqueror” by Samuel Spode – Original Framed Victorian Equestrian Oil Painting
Subject & Medium
This fine original oil on canvas, dated circa 1840, is the work of esteemed British sporting artist Samuel Spode (1798–1872). Titled “William The Conqueror”, the painting presents a powerful side-profile portrait of a brown thoroughbred gelding standing in his stable. The horse is shown bridled and facing right, painted with exceptional anatomical accuracy. His rich chestnut coat, contrasted by a black mane and tail, is enhanced with soft white speckled markings along his back.
The stable setting is rendered with strong period authenticity and includes:

A turquoise tartan blanket monogrammed “WC”, hanging neatly on a rack

A wooden bucket bearing matching initials

A broom leaning casually against the stable wall

A straw-scattered cobbled floor with excellent texture and depth

These elements create a warm, intimate environment that reflects both the horse’s status and the rustic refinement of early Victorian equestrian culture.
Composition & Technique
Spode demonstrates a masterful understanding of equine form and character. The horse stands in a dignified, calm pose, his musculature meticulously modelled through layered brushwork in warm browns, umbers, and subtle highlights.

Controlled brushwork defines the musculature, face, and flank with precision.

Looser, textured strokes bring life to the walls, floor, straw, and background details without distracting from the central subject.

The palette is natural and harmonious: golden straw, worn wood tones, the cool blue-green of the blanket, and understated metallic accents.

The lighting is soft and directional, giving the horse a sculptural presence while maintaining a lived-in authenticity throughout the stable setting.

The result is not just a portrait, but a narrative scene—a respectful glimpse into the quiet dignity of a celebrated racehorse at rest.
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 established

About the Artist – Samuel Spode (1798–1872)
Samuel Spode—grandson of the founder of Spode pottery—was a notable 19th-century equestrian and sporting artist. Working largely on commission, he produced numerous portraits of elite and historic horses, including:

Copenhagen (Duke of Wellington’s charger at Waterloo)

Ronald (ridden by Lord Cardigan during the Charge of the Light Brigade)

Prominent racehorses such as Voltigeur, Birdcatcher, and Caractacus

His work featured in The Sporting Magazine, and his most famous composition is The Pinckney Family Coursing at Stonehenge. Auction records for Spode’s paintings have reached upwards of $53,125 USD.
A skilled horseman, he brought genuine anatomical knowledge and keen observation to every canvas.
Frame
Presented in a newly fitted, traditional Larson-Juhl gilt moulded frame, which enhances the painting beautifully.

Hanging thread fitted to 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 Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD’s curated collection

Exhibited at Lord Hill Museum, November 2025

Highlights

Rare original Victorian equestrian oil painting

Portrait of a named horse, signed and inscribed

Rich composition with authentic early 19th-century stable details

Desirable work by an accomplished yet under-recognized British sporting artist

Beautifully framed and ready for presentation

Condition Report
Painting:
Professionally restored by a reputable Cheshire conservator.

Raised paint consolidated; reverse impregnated with wax–resin adhesive

Surface cleaned

Losses filled, retouched, and varnished

Structural reinforcements added, including copper tacks and a replaced key

Canvas re-tensioned and keys secured

Stable overall, with typical fine craquelure consistent with age

Frame:
Newly fitted Larson-Juhl gilt moulded frame in excellent condition.
A strong, decorative, and collectible example, full of period character.
Shipping
Worldwide shipping available. Professionally packaged and fully insured.
Purchase today & secure this exceptional Victorian equestrian masterpiece.
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