In a remarkable resurgence of artistic and historical significance, George Stubbs’ iconic painting, The Spanish Pointer, is poised to break records and capture global attention as it heads to auction in London.
Sotheby’s, one of the world’s leading art auction houses, has estimated the 18th-century masterpiece to sell for up to £2 million ($2.5 million). The piece, a stunning depiction of a Spanish pointer dog, reappears on the market after more than five decades in private hands.
As the world gears up to bid farewell to one of Stubbs’ earliest and most celebrated canine portraits, the painting’s journey through time, its historical relevance, and the legacy of the artist take center stage in the art world.
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A Rediscovered Gem: The History of The Spanish Pointer
Originally auctioned in 1802 for a mere £11 ($14), The Spanish Pointer exemplifies the meteoric rise in appreciation for George Stubbs’ artistry. The painting was last seen at auction in 1972, fetching £30,000 ($37,700), an impressive sum at the time. This upcoming sale marks the painting’s first public appearance in over half a century, rekindling global interest in Stubbs’ extraordinary talent.
Julian Gascoigne, senior director and British paintings specialist at Sotheby’s, expressed the thrill of rediscovering such a rare piece. “It is always very exciting when a painting of this calibre re-emerges after being ‘lost,’” Gascoigne noted. The painting’s storied past is intertwined with its historical value, as it was exhibited to the public only once—in 1948 at London’s National Gallery of Sports and Pastimes.
The precise date of the painting’s creation remains uncertain, though experts place it around 1766—a pivotal year in Stubbs’ career. This was the year his groundbreaking anatomical study, The Anatomy of the Horse, was published, securing his reputation as the leading animal painter of the 18th century.
Key Details of the Painting’s Journey
- First Auction: Sold for £11 in 1802.
- Previous Sale: Auctioned for £30,000 in 1972.
- Rare Exhibition: Displayed publicly only once, in 1948.
- Private Collection: Held in private ownership for over 50 years.
Stubbs’ meticulous artistry and anatomical expertise have not only elevated his status but have also imbued his works with timeless value, making The Spanish Pointer a highly coveted masterpiece.
A Masterful Depiction of the Spanish Pointer
Stubbs’ ability to capture the essence of animals remains unparalleled, as evidenced by The Spanish Pointer. The painting depicts a Spanish pointer, a breed introduced to England from Spain in the early 18th century. These dogs were prized for their obedience, keen hunting instincts, and striking physical attributes.
In the artwork, Stubbs highlights the dog’s characteristic wide nostrils, powerful build, and large skull, all rendered with meticulous precision. The anatomical accuracy is a testament to Stubbs’ background in studying anatomy, an expertise that defined his career.
“The painting demonstrates his versatility and innate understanding of animal anatomy of all species,” Gascoigne emphasized, praising Stubbs’ ability to translate complex anatomical structures into breathtaking works of art.
The Artistic Features That Stand Out
- Anatomical Precision: Stubbs’ extensive study of anatomy shines through in the painting’s detailed representation of the dog’s musculature and posture.
- Lifelike Expression: The Spanish pointer is rendered with a sense of vitality, embodying both strength and grace.
- Subtle Differences: Two versions of the painting exist, with slight variations in the background landscape. The other version resides in Munich’s Neue Pinakothek.
The painting not only captures the dog’s physical attributes but also conveys a sense of loyalty and purpose, qualities that made the breed so revered among sportsmen of the time. Stubbs’ ability to evoke emotion through his subjects remains one of his defining artistic traits.
The Spanish Pointer at Auction: A Rare Opportunity for Collectors
As The Spanish Pointer prepares to hit the auction block, it brings with it an air of anticipation and excitement. Sotheby’s exhibition of old master and 19th-century paintings offers collectors and art enthusiasts a rare chance to view the piece before its sale.
The painting’s re-emergence represents a convergence of art history and market dynamics, with its estimated price reflecting its cultural and artistic significance.
