About this lot

Description

Attributed to Samuel Alken, Junior (British, 1784-1825) The racehorse 'Dr Syntax' - Rubbing down at the Craven Stakes, 1816 oil on canvas (a pair) 21 x 26cm (8 x 10in) Other Notes: Doctor Syntax (1811 – 28 August 1838) was a British Thoroughbred racehorse and sire. Trained in Yorkshire, and racing exclusively in the North of England, Doctor Syntax won at least thirty-six races in ten seasons from 1814 to 1823. He was noted for his consistency and durability and recorded multiple wins in many of the period's leading staying races. He won the Preston Gold Cup on a record seven consecutive occasions, as well as five Lancaster Gold Cups and five Richmond Gold Cups. He was retired to stud in 1824 and proved a successful sire of winners. CONDITION: The paint layers have a craquelure pattern across the surface which is part of the natural aging of the materials. In the corners of the painting there are diagonal stress cracks, caused due to aging and the tension of the canvas and paint layers. The paint layers are stable and secure overall. The painting which shows the horse being held with no rider - the white spots on the horses back are part of the painting and presumably represent the sweat of the animal as the saddle is removed, similar daubs of white paint can be seen around the horses’ mouth and as highlights on the reins. Under ultraviolet light retouchings are evident, mainly located in the sky and background. 

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