Q&A: Rountree Tyron Gallery

14 June 2024

Founded in 1959, Rountree Tyron specialises in sporting, maritime and wildlife artworks from the 17th century to present day. It is also a Royal Warrant Holder, and proud to have sold important paintings to museums and institutions throughout its 65-year history.

Why have you chosen to participate in The Treasure House Fair this year?
We exhibited at the inaugural Fair last year, and were delighted with the look, feel and atmosphere of the fair – which is very similar to the Winter Show in New York, which we also exhibit at. We intend to take a stand for a long time to come. We also enjoy the variety and brilliance of each individual gallery and dealer, and their expertise in their specialism. I learn something every time I walk around Fairs such as The Treasure House, and find a lot of the exhibits absolutely fascinating, with the varied histories and provenance.

How did you first learn about The Treasure House and what makes it stand out from other Fairs?
We discovered The Treasure House following the turbulent Covid years, and immediately signed up as it looked like it would become the premier fair in the UK. It stands out mainly due to the quality of galleries represented, but also due to the atmosphere and look which is a wonderful accompaniment to viewing wonderful items.
 
What advice would you give to people visiting the fair for the first time?
Take time to wander around, and speak to the experts in their field.  Perhaps come back for a second viewing if you feel you have been too rushed – quality exhibits get better on second viewings, and this fair is no exception.

What highlight works will you be bringing to the Fair?
We have a diverse group of paintings from across our specialism spanning the 1600s to the  21st Century. In our sporting section we have a collection of works by the brilliant equine artist Sir Alfred Munnings, as well as some excellent horse racing oil paintings by artists such as J.F Herring and Charles Cundall, and from the modern era, Sue Crawford and Peter Curling.

Our maritime section includes a very rare historical painting of The Battle of Tobago, 1677 – which we believe to be the earliest known representation of that island, painted when under the control of the Dutch. Alongside this are other naval actions by Richard Paton and Thomas Whitcombe, as well as a dramatic painting of ships in a cyclone by William Huggins and finally a work depicting the funeral procession for Lord Nelson, 1806, down the river Thames with the myriad of boats involved. Our wildlife section hosts famous artists such as Archibald Thorburn, David Shepherd, Peter Scott and Keith Shackleton – both of whom co-created the WWF alongside HRH Prince Philip.

Below: Jan Karel Donatus Van Beecq, The Battle of Tobago 1677