Basil Blackshaw, H.R.H.A

The board is sound. The paint surface is stable and in good original condition. An excellent example by the artist. Under ultraviolet light there is an area which flouresces between the two central horses but this appears to be by the artist's hand reworking the surface. Contained in a gilt modern frame which could be improved greatly.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Blackshaw's ability to evoke so sensually the form and movement of horses, as seen in The Morning Excercise, stems from his rural upbringing and an involvement with horses throughout his life. Blackshaw's father was a professional horse trainer and while growing up south of Belfast in Co. Down, there were always one or two horses about the family's yard. Blackshaw himself was a keen rider and has a strong understanding of the intimate relationship between horse and rider, which is clearly evident in the present work.
Blackshaw enrolled at the Belfast College of Art in 1947, contributing to the cost of his education with his earnings from horse portraiture. He travelled to London and Paris in 1951 and was largely influenced by Post-Impressionist and Expressionist tendencies. Degas, who had a similar love of horses, and Cézanne were both important influences, which comes to light in The Morning Excercise. The soft and dappled brushwork and tonal palette creates a unified and richly atmospheric composition, which also exhibits Blackshaw's affinity with his rural surroundings and the people and animals that populate it.