James Seymour (artist)

James Seymour (1702–1752) was an English painter, widely recognized for his equestrian art.

He began spending time at racetracks early on, and before long found himself absorbed in the sport - drawing, painting, owning, breeding, and racing horses.

His art proved popular among the prominent sporting families of the day, eventually garnering Seymour patrons in Sir William Jolliffe and Charles Seymour, 6th Duke of Somerset.

Jolliffe's love for horses and art proved great, and his will would later establish an equestrian statue in Hampshire.

Though ultimately his love for horseracing led to his financial ruin, Seymour still ranks among the most important early sporting artists, together with John Wootton and Peter Tillemans being considered one of the three founders of the sporting school.