Pair of Equestrians Taking a Hedge
Drawing on heavy-textured paper • Attributed to Earlby (possibly Earlby Moore or a local sporting artist).
Style & Movement
Contemporary Sporting Art / Illustration; reminiscent of the British Sporting tradition (Thelwell or Munnings influence) but with a 1980s illustrative character.
Medium & Technique
Sepia pencil or ink on paper; utilizing fine-line sketching and light cross-hatching for tonal depth.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century, likely 1989 based on inscription.
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 8 x 10 inches; landscape format.
Subject Description
The drawing depicts two riders in formal hunting attire, including top hats and an equestrian dress/habit, jumping over a hedge on horseback. The setting is a rural landscape featuring rolling hills and a tree in the foreground. It captures a moment of dynamic motion typical of fox hunting or cross-country riding scenes.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Very Good; the paper shows consistent texture and the lines remain sharp with minimal fading.
Estimated Market Value
$150 - $350 USD
Auction Estimate
$100 - $250 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired through a local gallery or equestrian art dealer; the signature 'Earlby 89' suggests a specific contemporary artist active in the late 1980s.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the continued interest in equestrian lifestyle and 'sporting art' in the late 20th century. While likely a regional or personal work, it demonstrates professional proficiency in animal anatomy and equestrian posture.
Notable Features
Signatory inscription 'Earlby 89' in the lower right; distinct use of heavily grained watercolor-grade paper which adds a tactile, rustic quality to the fine-line drawing.
Condition Issues
Slight yellowing consistent with age; minor edge wear. No visible foxing or water damage is apparent in the image.
Conservation Recommendations
Mount using acid-free matting and UV-protective glass to prevent the ink/pencil from fading and the paper from further acidification. Keep in a climate-controlled environment away from direct sunlight.
Collector Notes
signed in lower right corner, might say “Early ‘89” or “Earby 89” or something similar