Equestrian Oil Painting c.1912 – “The Mint”Thoroughbred Stallion, in the Manner of Sir Alfred Munnings

This fine early 20th-century equestrian portrait, painted in 1912 by Timothy B. Whitby, is executed in the manner of Sir Alfred Munnings (1878–1959), the most celebrated British equestrian artist of the 20th century. While Whitby was not Munnings’ pupil, his use of light, colour, and expressive brushwork conveys a comparable spirit — capturing both the anatomy of the Thoroughbred and its nobility, presence, and atmosphere within the stable.

🐎 Subject & Medium

The painting portrays “The Mint”, a chestnut Thoroughbred stallion and sire, depicted in proud full profile facing left inside his stable. His arched neck, finely shaped head, and muscular body emphasise his conformation and stature. Everyday details — the rustic brick wall, the water trough to the right, and straw scattered underfoot — anchor the noble subject in a real and familiar environment.

• Medium: Oil on canvas

• Date: August 1912

• Signature: Signed lower corner T. B. Whitby

• Frame: Original gilt frame, enhancing the warmth and authenticity of the composition.

🖌 Composition & Technique

• Colour: The stallion’s coat glows with deep sienna, russet, and golden ochre, highlighted with ivory tones that reflect light across his musculature. Earthy reds, browns, and golden straw form a balanced, atmospheric backdrop.

• Brushstrokes: Fine directional strokes describe the sheen of the horse’s coat, while looser, more impressionistic touches capture straw and brickwork with energy and life.

• Style: Stylistically, the work resonates in the manner of Sir Alfred Munnings, combining anatomical accuracy with painterly warmth to elevate the horse from a stable study to a portrait of character and dignity.

🖌 The Artist – Timothy B. Whitby

Whitby was a British equine and animal painter active in the late Victorian and Edwardian periods. His work blends careful observation with expressive handling, placing him within the great lineage of sporting artists. This painting is among his finest — a harmonious union of technical skill, compositional strength, and equestrian elegance.

🏇 The Horse – The Mint and the “Mint” Heritage

Provenance identifies The Mint as a Thoroughbred stallion and sire. While not widely documented in racing records, his name clearly recalls one of the great bloodlines of the era:

• Minting (1883–1909) – winner of the Grand Prix de Paris and Hardwicke Stakes, influential stallion.

• Maid of the Mint – Minting’s daughter, dam of Spearmint (1903), Derby and Grand Prix de Paris winner.

By 1912, the “Mint” name signified Thoroughbred excellence. It is highly likely that The Mint was named in homage to this celebrated lineage, carrying forward the prestige of the Minting–Spearmint connection.

📜 Provenance

• Private Lancashire stud collection

• Shire auction label verso

• Now in the collection of Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD

📐 Dimensions (with frame)

• Height: 61.5 cm

• Width: 76.5 cm

• Depth: 4.5 cm

🏛 Condition Report

• Canvas: Fine used condition with surface dirt, foxing, craquelure, and minor paint loss at edges. Historic touch-up repairs noted to the stallion’s face and stable background (two small patches on reverse).

• Frame: General wear, dust, scuffs, and chips consistent with age, yet stable and attractive.

❤️ Why You’ll Love It

✅ A statement piece – Commanding presence, perfect for an office, library, or gallery wall.
✅ Rich in history – Named in homage to the prestigious Minting–Spearmint Thoroughbred lineage.
✅ Timeless artistry – Signed and dated by Timothy B. Whitby, executed in the manner of Sir Alfred Munnings (1878–1959).
✅ Decorative & authentic – Warm palette, gilt frame, and ready-to-hang presentation.
✅ Collector appeal – A rare blend of fine art, equestrian heritage, and early 20th-century British sporting culture.