{HISTORY}

Featuring one of the world's most well-known race tracks, Epsom Downs Racecourse in Surrey, England, has been in operation since 1661. Capturing the flurry of excitement that has always been associated with race day, British painter James Pollard (1792-1867) highlighted both the beauty of the sport and the surroundings in his 1836 Epsom engraving titled Preparing to Start.

Reprinted in Germany in 1960 in large format folio size for the Societe Nouvelle des Editions du Chene in Paris, this rendition printed on textured paper features a beautiful color palette with golden grasses, grey green skies and pine, sage and mint trees rolling across the landscape in pastoral splendor. 

A handsome addition to any space,  we particularly love the elegant gents and jockeys in their top hats and racing uniforms, the energy of the horses,  and the warm color palette, which includes teal, black, chestnut, espresso, chocolate, and slate among the moss, pine, mint, sage, and amber shades mentioned above. 

James originally got his start in 1820 painting a coach scene on signage for an inn. Commissioned works followed for more coach scenes and quickly James' painting career took off. Also known for his work detailing racing, fishing and foxhunting scenes, he exhibited at the Royal Academy in the 1820s and worked consecutively through the 1850s before fully retiring. 

{SPECIAL FEATURES}

• Marked with the name of the painter and engraver as well as the title of the print and the year it was originally produced
•  Printed on high-quality, textured paper 

{CONDITION}

In beautiful condition, this print contains no spots, stains, or foxing. The colors are bright and vibrant and the detailing is crisp and clear. 

{SIZE}

Measures 15.75" inches (length) x 12" inches (width)