Frank Griggs English Horse Frames Horse Portrait of the Racehorse Apelle

This distinguished vintage photograph captures “Apelle,” the celebrated chestnut racehorse known for his distinctive blazed face. As the most accomplished racing progeny of “Sardanapale,” a champion French racehorse of the early 20th century, Apelle’s lineage is proudly noted on the photograph as “Sardanapale – Angelina.”
In this portrait, the horse is rendered through a photograph, while the background is artistically hand-painted, creating a harmonious blend of realism and artistry. The piece bears the signature of Frank Griggs, a renowned Newmarket photographer celebrated for his equine portraits.
This artwork not only honors Apelle’s racing legacy but also exemplifies the meticulous craftsmanship of early 20th-century equine photography. It stands as a testament to the rich history of horse racing and the enduring appeal of classic equestrian portraiture.