The horse was owned by George, 20th Lord Hastings, whose stable was at Melton Constable, their Norfolk estate. The Times reported Melton’s wine at the 1885 Derby: “Further and further did Paradox draw away, and his victory seemed well assured until Melton coming with a run, drew into second place. Inch by inch Melton crept up, and despite Archer’s most strenuous endeavours, the bell was reached ere Lord Hastings’ colt could get on terms. In the short run home from this point a truly magnificent race resulted, and as Melton and Paradox answered gamely to every call that was made upon them the finish was so close that until Melton’s number was hoisted no one could say with certainty which was the winner.” The horse was ridden by the greatest jockey of the age, Fred Archer, who committed suicide the following year.

Provenance: accepted in lieu of tax by H.M.Treasury and transferred to the National Trust in 2009

Marks & inscriptions: Bottom right: F S EVANS / 1885

Text from National Trust website

Object description
Type: Easel painting
Location: Seaton Delaval Hall, Northumberland
Material: Oil on canvas
Artist: F. S. Evans (fl.1885)
Date: 1885

Image Details
Date: 29 September 2023
Camera body: iPhone Xs
Lens: Wide Camera 26mm ƒ/1.8
Focal Length: 26mm
Aperture: ƒ/1.8
Shutter Speed: 1/24s
ISO: 800
Licensing: Image of a National Trust asset. This image cannot be licensed.