Race Horses on the Beach (Primary Title)
René Pierre Charles Princeteau, French, ca. 1844 - 1914 (Artist)
This tranquil scene is a representation of thoroughbreds exercising on a beach in France. The location is very likely Deauville in Normandy. The seaside town was accessible by train, making it a popular holiday resort for members of French high society at the time Princeteau made this painting. After the construction of the railroad was underway, the Duc de Morny invested in a hippodrome for horse races. Beginning in 1863, Deauville and its surrounding countryside evolved into one of the major international centers for breeding and racing thoroughbreds.
Collection of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Mellon
Image released via Creative Commons CC-BY-NC
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