Andreas Bortowski (German, b 1938) Portrait of a Horse in a Stable Oil on board Signed lower left Sight: approx. 15 1/2in H x 16 3/4 L In a black matte frame: 21 3/4in H x 23in L x 2 1/2in D
Equestrian portraits were often commissioned to commemorate a renowned racehorse or hunting partner, with as much personality and detail as a human sitter. In many cases, horse portraits were indicators of the owner's economic status. As the middle classes grew from the 18th century onwards, the ability to afford a horse which was not just for labor became obtainable and fashionable. A well-bred horse not only displayed social status, but gained access to high society pursuits such as racing, polo, and cross country hunts.
