Important original paintings by Daniel Crane, one of the world’s leading equestrian artists, are set for auction in January.
Daniel’s work is coveted by collectors worldwide and examples are currently being exhibited at London’s Osborne Gallery.
Such is the respect for his work, he is resident artist for London’s Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment. His Royal Collection contains historical and iconic scenes of London, the royal family and the Household Cavalry on State occasions.
Bidders will have the opportunity to make a Daniel Crane painting their own courtesy of two offerings in Hansons Auctioneers’ January 9 Fine Art sale.
A watercolour entitled Hell For Leather, estimate £6,500 – £8,500, depicts a hunting scene in the manner of fellow horse/rural artists Lionel Edwards (1878-1966), Cecil Aldin (1870-1935) and Charlie Johnston Payne, known as Snaffles, (1884-1967).
Victoria Sheppard, Fine Art valuer at Hansons, said: “We see the field following the hounds and the huntsmen and women are going hell for leather. They gallop at pace, jumping hedges, possibly in the Vale of Belvoir, an area which extends across parts of Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire.
“The horse and rider in the middle of the composition are in perfect harmony, collected but forward-going and preparing for a rapidly approaching hedge!. Another rider jumps a hedge, again in perfect harmony with her horse, and looks towards the next hurdle in a test of mutual skill.
“The scene is framed by swirling storm clouds, indicating winter, but the riders are undeterred. They travel as one, in-the-moment, enjoying their mutual passion. Through his love of hunting, Daniel portrays the excitement of the chase and captures the exhilarating thrill of galloping through countryside.
“He is the modern-day Lionel Edwards. His paintings are traditionalist in nature , focusing on light and evoking the senses.
“He captures the deep connection between horse and rider, and the true magnificence of horses, a fact demonstrated by another offering, an oil on canvas entitled Informalities, which has an estimate of £15,000-£20,000.
“It depicts two hunters ready for a gallop along a Lincolnshire strand, the lead horse’s ears are pricked, and the sense of anticipation is palpable. The horses’ movement showcases their elegance and grace. Though the sky is gloomy, glimmers of sunlight pick out the gleam of their coats. This image has been reproduced as a print, so this is a rare opportunity to own the original.”
Daniel, 53, was born in Norfolk in 1969 but now lives in Lincolnshire with his wife, Ali, four black Labradors and an eclectic collection of the best loved and most painted hunters in England.
As the youngest son of a farming family he has always been surrounded by animals and the countryside and has grown up with a respect and love for both. From an early age he had a keen interest in field sports but in his late teens he was gripped by fox-hunting with such a passion that the sport has become a major part of his life.
As a consequence, he understands all aspects of hunting from kennels to covertside. This is evident in his paintings which embrace his passion for hunting, horses and hounds.
Daniel Crane’s paintings will be offered in Hansons’ January 9 Fine Art Auction. To find out more, or to arrange a free valuation, email [email protected].
