SIR EDWIN LANDSEER (1803-73)
Queen Victoria (1819-1901) on Horseback
c. 1837-9RCIN 400200
This work is an oil sketch for an ambitious equestrian portrait which failed to materialise. Landseer shows the Queen riding through an triumphal arch, on her favourite horse and with her favourite dogs, followed by a troop of lancers. The Queen is dressed in medieval costume before an idealised version of Windsor Castle. This is a châtelaine of romance with her loyal retainers.