This is a large fine mid-19th century oil on canvas depicting a thoroughbred horse named ‘Cardinal’ by the eminent Victorian artist John Paul (1804–1887). The painting hangs in a fine water gilded English frame and is one of a pair we are currently selling. An inscription verso suggests that Cardinal belonged to Cosmo Little, probably Major Cosmo Little of the Queen’s 6th lancers, a well-known Victorian horseman and polo player.

As with all of the original antique oil paintings we sell it is offered in the very finest condition it can be for its age having been professionally cleaned and re-varnished.

John Paul was known for architectural views of London and for his fine equine portraits, some of which were painted with John Frederick Herring Snr (1795-1865). Paintings by John Paul are in the collections of The Guildhall Art Gallery in London.

Dimensions: (framed) 81cm x 68cm (32” x 26¾”)
Dimensions: (canvas only) 64cm x 51cm (25¼” x 20”)
Medium: Oil on canvas.
Provenance: Private UK collection.
Presentation: Fine water gilded English frame.
Condition: Excellent. Newly professionally cleaned and re-varnished. Ready to hang.