Vintage British Horse Racing Print - Ascot Heath Races by Francis Calcraft Turner featuring King William IV

{HISTORY}

When it comes to antique horse racing scenes, this one packs a lot of detail into its 12"x15" inch size.

Painted by British artist Francis Calcraft Turner (1782-1846), it features the Ascot Heath Races in Berkshire, England as depicted in 1837.

Francis was a prolific painter of hunting scenes and races throughout his career. This one is especially significant in that it includes a portrait of King William IV, who died shortly after. Seen from the king's box on the right-hand side of the painting, King William is pictured next to Queen Adelaide as both watch the horses come down the finish line. Irony at its best, no one at the time this painting was completed imagined that King William was also coming to the finish line of his own life too.  William's niece, Queen Victoria, would assume his reign upon his death.  

This painting is also interesting in that it tells a bit of racing history at Ascot Racecourse. First founded in 1711 by Queen Anne, the track is steeped in traditions that denote its evolution over centuries.  One important rule of the racecourse in the 19th century was that top hats had to be worn by all gentlemen guests of the course. You'll note that mandatory dress code was in full effect in this panting as all but two men are wearing top hats.

Fascinating in its minute details, Francis gives character and dimension to every subject in this portrait.  From the long line of trees in the background to the sleek lines of the horses as they race down the track, to the varied gestures, clothing, and postures of the race-goers, there is something lively to admire in every aspect of this painting.   

Reprinted in Germany in 1960 in large format folio size for the Société Nouvelle des Editions du Chene in Paris, this rendition of Francis' Ascot Heath Races is printed on heavy, textured paper. It features a vibrant equestrian color palette of bright reds, greens, and teals, along with warm shades of brown, gold, and grey.  

{SPECIAL FEATURES}

• Marked with the name of the painter and engraver as well as the title of the print and the year it was originally produced
•  Printed on high-quality, textured paper 
• Colors include tomato red, teal, black, gold, moss, almond sage, pale grey, chestnut, walnut, espresso, sky blue, lavender, lentil green, and avocado.

{CONDITION}

In beautiful condition, this print contains no spots, stains or foxing. The colors are vibrant and the details are crisp and clear.

{SIZE}

Measures 15.75" inches (length) x 12" inches (width)