Endurance (2024)Oil painting
by Ira Whittaker

This oil painting is based on a real moment I witnessed during my trip to London. It was an unexpectedly hot day, and yet the mounted ceremonial guard remained at his post in full uniform, standing completely still under the heavy sun.
The rider looked very young — almost a boy — but carried himself with calm discipline and quiet strength. What struck me most was how he and his horse endured the heat together, both focused, patient, and committed to their duty despite the hot weather.
The horse, standing right in front of the archway, seemed almost protective, steady and alert. Its warm brown coat caught the sunlight beautifully, creating a strong contrast with the dark stone structure behind it.
This scene felt sincere and human: tradition meeting reality, youth meeting responsibility, and a simple moment showing how demanding ceremonial duty can be.
In the painting, I tried to preserve exactly what I felt — respect for their endurance, admiration for their discipline, and the quiet atmosphere of that hot London day.
Enjoy my art.

Materials used:

oil, canvas, brushes, palette knife

Details:

• Oil painting on Canvas
• One of a kind artwork
• Size: 50.8 x 76.2 x 1.78cm (unframed) / 50.8 x 76.2cm (actual image size)
• Ready to hang
• Signed certificate of authenticity
• Style: Impressionistic
• Subject: People and portraits

Tags: