Richard Stone Reeves is considered to be the 20th century’s premier racing portraitist and perhaps the most important American painter of sporting art ever. Known for his accuracy and realism, Reeves’ ability to capture the personality and character of each subject was legendary. Over the decades, Reeves was commissioned to paint more international Thoroughbred champions than any artist in history.

In 1973, Penny Chenery commissioned the acclaimed artist to paint a conformation portrait of her great Triple Crown winner Secretariat. This warm and enduring association between celebrated painter and the esteemed "First Lady of Racing” was one of mutual respect and admiration. Reeves painted Secretariat several times during the course of his illustrious career, producing coveted and collectible limited edition prints of the Meadow champion on three separate occasions.

The last of these fine art lithographs was produced as part of a dual portfolio featuring Secretariat and the great gelding Kelso in the summer of 2005, just before Reeves died at the age of 85. In concurrence with his wishes, Ms. Chenery was given a small quantity of sets of the portfolio for her personal use and enjoyment.

The portfolio sets, produced by the Racing Scene Gallery, are significant in many respects. First, they were the last pieces published by Reeves in a storied career that accounted for seven books, more than 50 prints, and a legacy of timeless artistic excellence. Secondly, the work was produced in an edition of only 250 pieces, marking their release as one of the smallest and scarcest Reeves publications ever. And finally, the sets were hand-numbered and signed by the artist, with the Secretariat prints being additionally autographed by his Hall of Fame rider Ron Turcotte. 

Numbered #93/250 and measuring 19"  x 23" on heavy archival stock, this offering is a wonderful opportunity to own a rare and coveted piece of artwork from the personal Meadow Stable Archives