Artwork

'The White Hart' (pub sign)

'The White Hart' (pub sign), by Myles Birket Foster, unspecified, 1875
'The White Hart' (pub sign), by Myles Birket Foster, unspecified, 1875

'The White Hart' (pub sign) is an unspecified painting by the Plein Air artist Myles Birket Foster. It dates from 1875 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

The White Hart is a pub sign painting by Myles Birket Foster, dated to 1875, currently in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Subject & Meaning

The painting features a mythical white hart (a deer-antlered elk hybrid) in a serene, reclined pose, adorned with a neck chain and a floral chest garland, conveying an atmosphere of peace.

Technique & Style

Executed in a realistic style, the work showcases meticulous attention to detail, evident in the textured depiction of the hart's fur and the intricate floral garland, set against a contrasting dark, muted background.

History & Provenance

Created in 1875 by Myles Birket Foster, the painting's history prior to its acquisition by the Victoria and Albert Museum is not detailed here.

Context

As a pub sign, The White Hart would have originally served as an identifying emblem for an establishment, blending folklore with practical purpose.

Legacy

The painting's legacy is marked by its preservation in a prominent museum, though specific influences or notable exhibitions featuring the work are not highlighted here.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Myles Birket Foster

Artist

Myles Birket Foster

Myles Birket Foster (4 February 1825 – 27 March 1899) was a British illustrator, watercolourist and engraver in the Victorian period. His name is also to be found as Myles Birkett Foster.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted 'The White Hart' (pub sign)?

'The White Hart' (pub sign) was painted by Myles Birket Foster in 1875.

Where can I see 'The White Hart' (pub sign)?

'The White Hart' (pub sign) is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is 'The White Hart' (pub sign)?

'The White Hart' (pub sign) is associated with Plein Air.