Rataplan by John C. Nimmo

Rataplan by John C. Nimmo

C. 1890

Chromolithograph

This detailed equine portrait, titled Pl. 32 — Rataplan, is a classic antique chromolithograph published by John C. Nimmo in 1890. The print showcases a full-body profile of Rataplan, a celebrated chestnut Thoroughbred racehorse, standing in a natural conformation pose on a grassy ridge. Rendered with fine anatomical precision, the horse features a powerful copper-brown coat accented by bright white markings on its front left and rear right lower legs, a full flaxen-tinted tail, and a simple leather halter. The composition utilizes vibrant color stone overlays to build up the subtle tonal gradients of the muscular physique and the soft washes of green and blue in the low-lying landscape background, all while exhibiting a natural age-toning and slight brittleness across the historic paper sheet.

The artwork was originally produced for the landmark French publication Les chevaux de course: pedigree, description, historique. This highly regarded folio documented the lineage and racing history of the most celebrated English and French thoroughbred stallions and mares of the era. Published in London by Nimmo, the book served as an elite reference work for competitive breeders and high-society turf enthusiasts during the late Victorian racing boom. This particular plate is historically important because it exemplifies the peak of late 19th-century color printing technology, which allowed for precise, vibrant anatomical records that are highly collected today. It survives as an authentic piece of sporting history, capturing the strict breeding standards, pride, and idealized conformation aesthetics of an era when horse racing was transforming into a global, institutionalized industry.

Dimensions: H 9 ½” x 13 ½” W

Condition: Toned with age