Art Deco British “Trio of Sporting Bay Hunters” – Bronze Wall Sculpture Plaque, Circle of John Rattenbury Skeaping, c.1925

Subject & Medium

An exceptionally fine British Art Deco cast bronze wall sculpture plaque, depicting a trio of bay hunter thoroughbred horses in harmonious side profile. Each is shown quarter-length, bridled and alert, their proud heads lifted with attentive ears and noble expression. The modelling captures the essence of the sporting hunter: strength, elegance, and poise.

• Medium: Solid cast bronze with a rich, naturally aged patina

• Display: Retains its original bronze hanging chain for immediate wall mounting

• Markings: Reverse impressed with an old foundry number “7156”

Composition & Technique

Executed in refined low relief, this plaque exemplifies the Art Deco synthesis of naturalism and stylisation.

• Facial detail: The sculptor conveys delicate musculature beneath taut skin, strong jawlines, and finely flared nostrils.

• Tack detail: Bridles and reins are crisply delineated, lending depth and contrast.

• Surface treatment: A lightly stippled background provides visual texture, enhancing shadows and dimensionality.

• Finish: The warm bronze tonality has matured to a handsome, variegated patina, heightening visual appeal and authenticity.

Attribution

Though unsigned, the anatomical fidelity, elegance of line, and refined modelling strongly suggest the circle of John Rattenbury Skeaping (1901–1980).

• Skeaping, a Royal Academician and companion of Barbara Hepworth, is revered as one of Britain’s foremost animalier sculptors.

• His equestrian subjects from the 1920s and 1930s capture the power, nobility, and beauty of the horse with striking naturalism — qualities resonant in this plaque.

• Comparable works from Skeaping’s circle remain highly sought-after, valued for their technical mastery and timeless equestrian spirit.

Dimensions

• Height: 8.5 cm

• Width: 12 cm

• Depth: 0.25 cm

A rare small-scale equestrian bronze, intimate in size yet striking in sculptural presence.

Provenance

From a private country estate equine collection in the Shires, preserved within the same family for generations.

Why You’ll Love It

• Elegant Art Deco craftsmanship with a classic equestrian subject

• Rich original patina with beautifully rendered detail

• Compact and versatile display size, perfect for refined interiors or collections

• Estate provenance – a piece of British sporting history

Condition

Offered in fine antique condition, with a charming patina of age and light wear consistent with use. Original hanging chain intact and ready to display.

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Expertly packed and fully insured for secure international delivery.

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