Lot 731: Martin Frank Stainforth (1866-1957) PORTRAIT OF

Martin Frank Stainforth (1866-1957) PORTRAIT OF TWO HORSES AT AN OPEN GATE signed, dated 10.27 and inscribed Ranksborough Gorse, signed again, dated 3-4-28 and inscribed Painted for Owen H Smith Esq Old Langham Hall, Langham, Rutland, further inscribed on the selvedge "This painting must not be varnished before the end of July MS 3.4.28", 62 x 88cm The artist was born at Martley, Worcestershire and after training as an engraver and illustrator emigrated to Australia in 1908. He quickly established a reputation as a painter of racehorses for prominent owners, including King George V. He later spent 15 years in New York where he painted many famous American horses. Stainforth returned to England after World War Two. Mr Owen Hugh Smith, JP (1869-1958) of Langham Rutland bred pedigree Red Poll cattle and Suffolk Punches at his model farm beneath Ranksborough Hill.

In fine, untouched condition, the varnish yellowed with time, no holes, tears, damage or repairs, the work has not been relined and is on the original stretchers. In the original Flemish style ebonised, ripple moulded frame with losses caused by the affects of damp