Canadian. 1883. Watercolour. Professionally matted and framed behind glass. Swift, a Torontonian is recognized as a significant Canadian Folk Artist but he was filling a growing need for recording prize-winning animals, most often shown at the Toronto Exhibition for proud owners in the latter part of the 19th century. In this respect his work is equally important in documented Canadian historical facts that would otherwise have been lost to time. His work is very rare and examples seldom appear on the open market. They are always heart-warming when they do. Signed and dated, "J. Swift, Toronto / 1883" lower right quarter. Titled "Manfred 1758, Bred by Sir M.R. Shaw Stewart Bart Ardgowan, Greenock, Scotland. Imported by Graham Bros, Claremont, Ont, Canada 1883". Sight 19 x 24". CODE:PFA Miller Times article featuring this lot: https://millerandmillerauctions.squarespace.com/stories/2021/9/22/canadiana-artist-joseph-swift