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Paul Brown

American (1893-1958)

Paul Brown is widely regarded as the pre-eminent American illustrator of equestrian subjects although he was never formally trained as an artist. Although Brown is primarily known for his wonderful paintings, drawings and sketches of horses and equestrian sports, he is also admired for his elegant and prolific illustrations for Brooks Brothers catalogs over three decades. These number over one thousand drawings, making him a major influence on the image of urban males in twentieth-century America.

 Paul Brown's art is alive, original and strong without presumption. Color is only an occasional adjunct playing a very secondary role to the use of the hard-edged line. His style has a calculated simplicity and casual appearance but is carefully contrived and executed with authority.

 He used his wonderful powers of observation, drew heavily upon his copious notes and studies and greatly accepted the benefits of the camera only to cement his ideas. The rest was practice and care. His photographic memory proved invaluable, enabling him to render images of specific moments – sometimes years after they had taken place. Brown preferred to draw with a pencil and, although not fond of painting, he successfully employed a technique of using tinted paper with white highlights. 

During the heyday of polo in the 1930's, Paul Brown immortalized the sport with his illustrations for Peter Vischer's POLO magazine. While today those historical moments are taken for granted or even forgotten, Paul Brown's unique legacy breathes life into those special times. 

Illustrating and writing books became Brown's main occupation with the major publishers of the day including The Derrydale Press, Charles Scribner's Sons, and Dodd, Mead & Company. These books are avidly collected today and often fetch as much as an original work of art.

To view Paul Brown collectibles and books visit the following pages:

Cup of the Americas 1928

Decorative Arts

Rare Books

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