Richard Stone Reeves (American, 1919 -2005), Paint The Town and Arctic Family

Oil on canvas, 1978, signed and dated at lower right, titled to lower left, presented in a carved and parcel gilt frame.

Stretcher size 22 1/2 x 28 1/2 in.; Frame dimensions 30 3/4 x 36 1/2 in.

From the Estate of the late Peggy Augustus, Old Keswick, Virginia

Richard Stone Reeves was one of the foremost equine portraitists of the 20th century. Born in New York and trained at Syracuse University, Reeves rose to prominence in the late 1940s, quickly becoming the artist of choice for racing’s most distinguished owners in America, Europe, and the Middle East. Over his long career, he painted nearly every major champion of his era, from Native Dancer to Secretariat.

Among his European commissions is this portrait of Paint the Town and Arctic Family captured at Chantilly in July 1978, with the estate and grounds visible in the background. Chantilly is considered the heart of French Thoroughbred training. It is home to France’s largest training center, with thousands of horses stabled there. The Chantilly Racecourse (Hippodrome de Chantilly) hosts major flat races, including the Prix du Jockey Club (the French Derby) and the Prix de Diane (the French Oaks).

Very good condition.