Bay Horse in a Stable

JAMES BARENGER

1780-1831

English School

Bay Horse in a Stable

Oil on canvas, signed

22 x 29 ½ inches

56 x 75 cms.

James Barenger was born on Christmas day 1780 in Kentish Town. He was named after his father who was also an artist. James the elder exhibited paintings of insects at the Royal Academy from 1793 -1799. His son excelled in painting animals and landscapes and exhibited his first work with the Royal Academy when he was twenty-seven in 1807. Several years later, Barenger moved from Kentish Town to Park Street, Camden Town.

From 1815 onwards, Barenger's paintings were exhibited through Mr. Tattersall's gallery in Hyde Park Corner. Mr. Tattersall remained a loyal client throughout Barenger's life. Other patrons included The Earl of Derby, The Duke of Grafton, and The Marquess of Londonderry. In fact, one of Barenger's most notable works was a painting The Earl Derby's staghounds.

Barenger was one of the first artists to market himself as an animal portraitist and this resulted in many commissions to paint prize cattle. Barenger also painted many horses, which he treated with great care, often positioning them against a clear sky or blank wall to highlight their delicate features. He was very fond of Pointers, which he bred, and therefore painted numerous shooting scenes incorporating the breed.

Barenger always painted in oils and is recognised as an artist of great charm and ability. He is well known for his attention to detail and his sensitivity. All told, Barenger exhibited 40 paintings at The Royal Academy, eight at The British Institution, and three at Suffolk Street. He normally signed his work and sometimes dated it as well.