Théodore Fort (1810-1896) Ladies On Horseback - Pair Of Watercolors, Circa 1850

Théodore Fort (1810-1896)
Ladies on horseback during a chase
Pair of watercolors on paper, circa 1850

Charming pair of watercolors signed by Théodore Fort, depicting two elegant horsewomen taking part in a chase in the French countryside.

The first composition shows a young woman mounted on a dark bay horse, accompanied by a hunting dog, moving through a peaceful country landscape. The second depicts a rider in profile on a lively dapple-gray mount, captured in motion across the countryside. With their spontaneity and elegance, these two scenes perfectly illustrate the 19th-century infatuation with equestrian and hunting subjects.

Executed with finesse in watercolor, they testify to Théodore Fort's talent for drawing, as well as his particular attention to equine anatomy, lighting effects and the equestrian costume of his era. Horses and figures are treated with precision, while delicately suggested landscapes bring a light, poetic atmosphere to the whole.

Each sheet is signed lower left. The works are presented in their elegant period gilt frames with matting.

About the artist

Théodore Fort (1810-1896) was a French painter and watercolorist renowned for his equestrian, military and hunting scenes. He exhibited regularly at the Paris Salon from 1842 onwards, acquiring a solid reputation for his precise, vivid depictions of horses and riders. His works were appreciated in both France and Great Britain, and today feature in numerous public and private collections.

This pair of watercolors is a particularly attractive set for lovers of equestrian art, hunting scenes and 19th-century French painting.

Dimensions

• Watercolors: H. 18 × W. 23 cm
• With frames: H. 32.5 × W. 39.5 cm
• Depth: 4 cm

Features

• Technique: watercolor on paper
• Origin: France
• Era: mid-19th century
• Date: circa 1850
• Signed lower left

Condition
Very good condition. The watercolors have retained their original mounting and framing. The frames show some minor restorations. Light wear consistent with age and use.