Breaking News: Artwork Description and History
Julian Gascoigne, a senior director at Sotheby’s paintings department, has described a significant painting by Sir Edwin Landseer as one of his great Highland masterpieces. He noted that it is an atmospheric counterpart to the well-known Monarch of the Glen.
Gascoigne explained that while the Monarch depicts a stag in youthful brilliance, this painting presents a “darker, more epic vision,” filled with majesty and tension, representing the Highlands.
In 1857, The Times praised the painting as “masterly in conception and effect,” calling it a worthy partner to Monarch of the Glen.
Originally, Edward Betts purchased the artwork for £800. However, a banking crisis in 1868 compelled him to sell it along with his entire collection.
The painting has been displayed in public galleries multiple times since its initial sale.
