(1924-1990) remains one of the best-known and most intriguing artists from the "Painters Eleven" group. 

Town's reputation was established in the late 1950s with a series of mysterious unique abstract prints () that included collage elements. In 1956, he represented Canada at the Venice Biennale with these works. 

Over the following decades, the artist continued reinventing his aesthetic, regularly changing medium and mood. He was nicknamed the Picasso of Canada due to his constant evolution. By the mid-1960s, he was considered Canada's most famous artist. 

While Town made a significant contribution to Canadian abstraction, he created figurative works throughout his career. 

His "Toy Horse" series is arguably his most successful and recognizable body of figurative work. Inspired by a Christmas gift, Town reimagined the subject through a number of variations between 1976-1983, ranging from  to . 

This evocative work on paper is a striking example from this series, depicting the subject with bold, stylized forms, and whimsical details. The composition radiates dynamic energy, further intensified by voluminous twists and whirls that cascade through the horse's coat. This is the largest example of a Toy Horse on paper that we have encountered to date. 

Today, Town's work is represented in prestigious collections across North America including the Art Gallery of Ontario, the Museum of Modern Art (New York), and the Guggenheim (New York).

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"Toy Horse" (Shire) 

Canada, 1981

India ink on paper

Signed and dated 5-6-81 by the artist, bottom right 

30"H 39"W (work) 

33.5"H 43.5"W (framed)

Very good condition.

Provenance: The Estate of Harold Town