Otto Eerelman

Private collection, United Kingdom

Some very minor hairline craquelure in the snowy area. The board has been mounted on the original stretcher. The sihnature has been partly strengthened. This work needs cleaning. set in the original frame.
"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."

Otto Eerelman was educated at the academy Minerva in his hometown Groningen. From J.H. Egenberger (1822-1897) he learnt to make quick and simple sketches after live models, which proved to be very helpful in depicting such lively animals as horses and dogs. Eerelman continued his education at the Royal Academy of Arts in Antwerp under professor Nicaise de Keyzer (1813-1887). He was the best pupil of his class and rewarded with the 'prix d'excellence'.

Influenced by the famous Sir Laurence Alma Tadema, Eerelman painted predominantly portraits and historical subjects in the early years of his career. From 1865 he held a teaching position at the academy Minerva, where he left in 1874 to devote himself entirely to his own work. In 1875 he settled in The Hague. In these years, his fame grew steadily. He exhibited a market scene with horses that was applauded for the magnificent way in which the horses were depicted. From that moment onwards, horses became one of his specializations.

In order to practice his skills, Eerelman spent much time around the horses. He visited horse markets, trotting-matches and other equestrian events, where he was a welcomed guest and sat first row to sketch the horses in their different poses and movements. As a result of this, a large part of his oeuvre is devoted to horses, which he depicted in various situations: pulling carriages or sledges in the snow, performing at races or in the circus acts, but also posing with their proud owners. These paintings earned him great popularity, which resulted in many commissions, among which from Queen Wilhelmina.

Eerelman's popularity was stimulated largely by the Royal commissions he received from 1880 onwards. For almost 30 years he depicted various events from the life of Queen Wilhelmina, such as her inauguration in 1898 and marriage to Prince Hendrik in 1901. The present lot can be compared to a similar painting depicting Queen Wilhelmina and her mother, Queen Emma, on a riding tour in the snow. Please compare: T. Meedendorp, Otto Eerelman 1839-1926, Amsterdam 1989, cat.no. 62. This present lot always remained in a private collection and is a great example of Eerelman's virtuosity.