John Alfred Wheeler (British, 1851-1932) The trio signed ‘A Wheeler’ (lower right)oil on board12 3/4 x 17 3/4in. (32.5 x 45cm.)

Stunning Museum quality oil of three hound heads

Alfred Wheeler was born near Bath in Somerset to John Alfred Wheeler (1821-1877), who retired early from the Army to pursue a successful painting career. Alfred is thought to have studied under his father and to have worked closely with him. He married Catherine Muspratt in 1874 and moved next door to his father at Raglan Villas, Bath. Alfred then followed his father when he moved to Hanwell. Alfred and Catherine had six children of whom Walter Herbert and John Frederick became artists.

The Wheeler family specialised in sporting subjects such as horseracing and foxhunting. They also painted animal portraits.

There is often confusion between Alfred Wheeler and his father because their style is so similar and they both signed J. A. Wheeler or A. Wheeler senior. They even painted some of the same racehorses and both received commissions from Baron Rothschild and the Prince of Wales. Alfred's work is thought to be less prolific. However, Alfred did contribute to many of his father's paintings toward the end of his life. Generally, Alfred's pictures tend to have more of a photographic quality about them than those of his father.