An elegant 19th-century equestrian oil by Théodore Fort (1810–1896), capturing a spirited grey horse, loose and mid-stride.
A dynamic and finely executed equestrian painting by Théodore Fort, celebrated 19th-century French artist renowned for his detailed depictions of horses and equestrian subjects. This work, signed lower left, portrays a spirited grey horse, having snatched itself away from it’s handler, it is captured in full motion, mane and tail caught by the wind, set against a serene sky tinged with warm evening tones. The animal’s musculature and proportions are rendered with Fort’s characteristic precision, reflecting his deep knowledge of equine anatomy and his skill in conveying movement and vitality.
Fort’s oeuvre includes oils and watercolours capturing military reviews, cavalry manoeuvres, hunting scenes, and rural horse fairs. His works were exhibited at the Paris Salon from the mid-19th century and remain sought-after by collectors of sporting art and animal painting. Presentation The painting measures 38.5 × 46 cm unframed and is housed in its original 19th-century gilt frame, which has been carefully cleaned and given light restoration to preserve its patina and decorative detail. The canvas has been relined for stability, with only very minor repairs to the painted surface, executed to a high conservation standard. The overall condition is excellent for a work of its age, with fresh colours and no significant losses. Fort’s work is admired for its blend of realism and romanticism, appealing both to connoisseurs of fine animal painting and to those seeking decorative works with historic charm. His paintings capture not only the physical form of the horse but also its spirit, making them enduringly popular with equestrian enthusiasts and collectors of 19th-century French art. Dimensions: Unframed: 38.5 × 46 cms Framed: 59 x 67 x 6 cms Condition: Relined; minor repairs to paint surface; original gilt frame cleaned and lightly restored.
