Kitty Portrait Of A Hunter Mare, Chiddingfold, Leconfield & Cowdray Hunt

“Kitty” – Portrait of a Hunter Mare, Chiddingfold, Leconfield & Cowdray Hunt
Murray McNeel Caird Urquhart (1880–1972)
Subject & Medium
A signed and dated oil on canvas portrait of Kitty, a bay hunter mare, depicted saddled in a stable interior. Painted in 1928 by Scottish-born artist Murray Urquhart, whose training in Edinburgh, London, and Paris shaped his distinctive style.
Through layered glazes, Urquhart gives Kitty’s coat a lustrous depth, while the rustic ochres and greys of the stable provide an earthy, authentic backdrop.
Composition & Technique
The mare is shown in a classic three-quarter stance, a pose that highlights conformation and balance. Her gleaming coat is the central focus, offset by the muted tones of the stable wall and stone floor.
Urquhart’s palette is warm and harmonious: rich siennas and umbers describe musculature, ochres warm the timbers, and cool greys ground the composition. Highlights in the girth, saddle, and eye enliven the portrait.
Combining academic precision in the horse and tack with impressionistic handling of the background, Urquhart merges British equestrian tradition with Parisian influences in light and texture.
The Horse & the Hunt
Kitty, a Thoroughbred-type hunter mare in her prime (around 7–10 years old), embodies stamina and courage, traits vital for long days across the demanding Chiddingfold, Leconfield & Cowdray Hunt (CL&C) country of West Sussex.
The plain bridle and English hunting saddle confirm her working role in the field. By repute, the portrait was commissioned to honour her contribution, making it not only a decorative work but also a testament to loyalty, heritage, and the traditions of English sporting life.
The Artist
Murray McNeel Caird Urquhart (1880–1972)
Studied at the Edinburgh School of Art, Westminster, and the Académie Julian in Paris
Exhibited at the Royal Academy, New English Art Club, and Paris Salon
Accomplished in landscapes, portraits, and animal studies
Works continue to be offered at leading salerooms, achieving prices up to US $13,000
Urquhart’s paintings are admired for their fusion of British naturalism with French impressionist light, producing works that are both accurate and atmospheric.
Signed
Lower left: Murray Urquhart, dated 1928
Upper right: Title KITTY
Frame
Original 1920s beechwood frame, warm stained with a natural patina.
Light surface wear and minor losses are consistent with age, but the frame remains structurally sound and ready for display.
Dimensions
Framed: 57 cm (W) × 49 cm (H) × 2 cm (D)
Provenance
Private equestrian collection, Chichester (by repute linked to CL&C Hunt stables)
Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD
Exhibited at the Lord Hill Museum
Why This Piece Stands Out
A rare signed and dated equestrian portrait by Murray Urquhart
Celebrates a mare in her prime, with strong hunt associations
Provenance includes private collection, curatorial oversight, and museum exhibition
Retains its original period frame, adding authenticity and charm
An important work for collectors of sporting, equestrian, or British country house art
Condition Report
Original canvas, well-tensioned and stable
Paint surface in excellent condition, with only minor age craquelure
Signature and inscription clear and legible
Frame with some abrasions & minor losses, structurally sound
Overall: fine condition, ready to hang
Shipping
Professionally packaged and fully insured for worldwide delivery.
A lasting tribute to horse, hunt, and heritage.
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