Henry Alken

The work is in good condition, the canvas is lined. Some light craquelure on the surface of the work. Under UV: Two minor 1 inch spots in the sky.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This picture depicts Lord Falmouth's brown filly Dutch Oven ridden by the legendary jockey Fred Archer passing the post in the 1882 St Leger Stakes at Doncaster. Although owner and jockey were a formidable partnership on the Turf, Dutch Oven was not expected to win and started at very long odds of 40 to 1. The odds-on favourite Geheimniss finished a length-and-a-half back in second, and four lengths clear of the Duke of Westminster's Shotover. All the placed horses were fillies.

In a highly successful race career Dutch Oven recorded a total of 16 career victories. Other notable wins included the Richmond Stakes, the Dewhurst Plate, the Yorkshire Oaks and the Queen's Plate at Stockbridge. She had been bred in 1879 by 'Dutch Skater' out of Cantiniere.

Fred Archer was the outstanding jockey of the Victorian period and his principle patron was Lord Falmouth. Tragically, after suffering from depression and illness, Archer shot himself at his Newmarket home. He was only 29 at and the height of his powers. Had he lived and had a full career in the saddle it is doubtful if his riding record would have ever been bettered such was his domination of the sport.

We would like to thank Graham Budd for his help in cataloguing this work.