George Stubbs

George Stubbs (1724 – 1806) was a self-taught artist from England, best known for his paintings of animals, particularly horses. His interest in anatomy became one of the driving passions of his life. Stubbs’ output includes history paintings, but his greatest skill was in painting animals, perhaps influenced by his love and study of anatomy. His series of paintings on the theme of a lion attacking a horse are early and significant examples of the Romantic movement that emerged in the late 18th century. He also became known for his paintings in enamel on Wedgwood earthenware plaques. The media used in his paintings included drying oil, non-drying oil or fat, beeswax and pine resin.