This early 19th-century oil painting by British artist I Moore depicts a horse with its dapper groom.

With his left hand clutching the reins, a smartly-attired young groom stands proudly alongside a bay mare. He’s dressed in a style befitting the 1810s with boots, pantaloons, coat and cravat. His top hat carries an intriguing black rosette, perhaps relating to an award.

It’s likely that the painting was commissioned by the owner of a fine British country house who instructed a local artist. They’ve worked in a manner associated with well-known 18th-century equine painters such as George Stubbs, John Wootton and John Nost Sartorius. Only one other work by I Moore can be found, which dates to circa 1780.

Signed in the lower right and housed within a later frame.

Medium: Oil on canvas laid on board
Overall size: 33” x 28” / 84cm x 71cm
Year of creation: c. 1815
Labels & Inscriptions: ‘E.Denny’ inscribed on reverse which could relate to a previous owner.
Condition: Craquelure but the paint is stable. Darkened. Frame with some light wear.