This beautiful double horse portrait in oils features Jubilee and Trinity. Nicholas hand painted the portrait on Italian linen canvas, working closely from our client's photos to create a lifelike and emotionally meaningful piece. Double portraits start at 18 x 14 inches to ensure each horse has space to shine, and the composition process is always carefully planned with our clients. We hope you enjoy reading about this special commission.
In 2017, Clive Fairclough contacted us about a special portrait commission. He and his wife Jo were moving abroad and had decided to sell their two beloved horses. Their parish wanted to give them a parting gift, and a double portrait in oils was the perfect keepsake.
Clive shared, “We bred two lovely horses… we’ve decided a painting would be good. We like your husband’s style and want an oil painting like your gallery Gatsby, Missy and Moriarty.” Nicholas painted both horses with their plaits in—a lovely nod to their work as hunters—and placed them on a soft plain background to keep the focus on their expressions.
“Hi Guys, we are delighted – they look amazing. Well done to Nicholas!”
– Clive and Jo Fairclough
“Dear Melanie and Nicholas, love the painting in progress. x”
This commission was especially meaningful as it came from Clive and Jo’s parish community. Moving abroad meant saying goodbye to their horses, but this portrait provided a comforting reminder of home. Portraits like these make wonderful gifts for birthdays, retirement, or relocation—and we love helping people keep their animals close, wherever life takes them.
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.
Click below to view the next horse portrait in our collection.
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!