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

“Kitty” – Portrait of a Hunter Mare, Chiddingfold, Leconfield & Cowdray HuntMurray McNeel Caird Urquhart (1880–1972)Subject & MediumA 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 & TechniqueThe 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 HuntKitty, 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 ArtistMurray McNeel Caird Urquhart (1880–1972)Studied at the Edinburgh School of Art, Westminster, and the Académie Julian in ParisExhibited at the Royal Academy, New English Art Club, and Paris SalonAccomplished in landscapes, portraits, and animal studiesWorks continue to be offered at leading salerooms, achieving prices up to US $13,000Urquhart’s paintings are admired for their fusion of British naturalism with French impressionist light, producing works that are both accurate and atmospheric.SignedLower left: Murray Urquhart, dated 1928Upper right: Title KITTYFrameOriginal 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.DimensionsFramed: 57 cm (W) × 49 cm (H) × 2 cm (D)ProvenancePrivate equestrian collection, Chichester (by repute linked to CL&C Hunt stables)Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTDExhibited at the Lord Hill MuseumWhy This Piece Stands OutA rare signed and dated equestrian portrait by Murray UrquhartCelebrates a mare in her prime, with strong hunt associationsProvenance includes private collection, curatorial oversight, and museum exhibitionRetains its original period frame, adding authenticity and charmAn important work for collectors of sporting, equestrian, or British country house artCondition ReportOriginal canvas, well-tensioned and stablePaint surface in excellent condition, with only minor age craquelureSignature and inscription clear and legibleFrame with some abrasions & minor losses, structurally soundOverall: fine condition, ready to hangShippingProfessionally packaged and fully insured for worldwide delivery.A lasting tribute to horse, hunt, and heritage.For more curated pieces, explore our eBay shop: Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD.