National Sporting Life Library

The National Sporting Life Library and Museum in Middleburg, Va, just outside of Washington, D.C. is indeed a national treasure.  Founded in 1954, it is dedicated to preserving, promoting and sharing the literature, art, and culture of horse and field sports.  It is now an important research facility with over 17,000 books and works of art in its collection. 

Its permanent collection consists of over 200 works of art including objects by artists such as Paul Brown, John Emms, Herbert Haseltine, Sir Alfred Munnings, Edward Troye and Franklin B. Voss.  Below is Alligator by Franklin B. Voss (1880-1953), oil on canvas.

Another painting by Voss, Portrait of Elida B. Langley, Riding Sidesaddle at Sandown, 1921.

Sir Alfred James Munnings (English, 1878-1959), The Barn, oil on canvas:

Edward Troye (American, 1808-1874), Goliah, oil on canvas, a gift from Mr. Paul Mellon:

Their current exhibition, Horses at Work and Play, runs until June 30th.  It highlights literature and art from the collections and features antique toys from the renowned Athelstan and Kathleen Spilhaus collection. 

If you are in this area of the world and love horses, art and books, you will be mesmerized by this collection.

Check out their web site for more details.

Enjoy your Tuesday!