Melanie&Nicholas

Oil and Pencil Pet Portraits from Photos

Horse Equine Portrait in Oils – Cool Clover

Welcome to the horse portrait of Cool Clover – also known as Cheeky – painted by Nicholas Beall using traditional oil techniques on Italian linen canvas. Many of our clients request a head and shoulders composition with an outdoor background, and this portrait is a perfect example. The gentle greenery and pale sky set the tone beautifully, placing full focus on Cool Clover’s expression and elegant pose.

Completed oil portrait of Cool Clover, a horse, with a gentle outdoor background.
Cool Clover

Commission of Cool Clover

Marian Regan from the UK contacted us in 2011 to commission a painting of her family’s beloved horse, Cheeky whose show name is Cool Clover. The portrait was to be a special Christmas gift for the whole family and was painted at 20 x 16 inches in oils on canvas.

Marian provided several lovely photos of Cool Clover to choose from, and Nicholas selected one that would translate beautifully into a timeless oil portrait. A peaceful outdoor background was added to bring softness and light into the scene.

Horse portrait in oils by Nicholas Beall, showing a detailed stage of painting.
Detailed view of Cool Clover's oil portrait in progress

Client Testimonial

“Hi Melanie and Nicholas,
The painting of Cheeky looks terrific – I can't wait to see it in the flesh!
If you're going to feature the painting on your website – and it looks so lovely you should! – Cheeky's proper name is Cool Clover.”

– Marian Regan

How It Works

If you're considering commissioning a portrait, head over to our step-by-step guide to find out how the process works. We’re always happy to answer questions and help bring your ideas to life.

Next Portrait in the Gallery

Click below to view the next horse portrait in our collection.

Commission a Portrait

Send us your favourite photos of your dog, cat, or horse and we will help you choose the perfect one for your portrait. We are happy to chat about any ideas you have for a portrait. We can’t wait to get started!