Take a trip to the Great British countryside and it is quickly clear that it is home to some spectacular scenery, wonderful wildlife, vibrant village communities...as well as a good number of off-road vehicles.
The most recognisable, perhaps, is the Land Rover – a national treasure which began it's journey in the late 1940's as the Land Rover Series I.
After a decline in demand for luxury cars following World War II, the Rover Company – taking inspiration from the combat utilised Willys Jeep – devised a plan to produce a light utility vehicle, with an agricultural slant, and in 1948 built the first mass-produced four wheel drive vehicle, with doors, hard roof option, and for civilian use.
Originally only intended to have a two or three year production run, the success of the Series I was unexpected, and greatly outsold standard car production. Eventually, it developed into a successful brand of its own, and in 1991 the Series I had attained its own name – the Defender (a nod to its military origins).
Dear to the hearts of the nation, this renowned off road vehicle has earned its status as a British icon...and this month one showcases another, as Land Rover continues their lengthy partnership with the James Bond franchise, and the Range Rover Classic, three Defenders and a Series III Land Rover all appear in the latest 007 film – No Time to Die.
Symbolic of agriculture, action and adventure, the archetypal appearance of the early Land Rover models has been artistically represented in paint and print, as well as on the big screen.
Anthony Dobson's three limited edition prints Coming Home*, On Safari*, and Breaking Cover, beautifully depict an eager Black Lab, excitable Jack Russell, and watchful Spaniel peering from within or perched on top of the treasured 4x4s.
Each image sympathetically portrays these classic cars, making use of the heritage colours of Sand, Bronze Green, and Marine Blue.
And with a distinct 'country set' spirit these stunning representations of the classic Landy and some keen canine counterparts at the heart of the action perfectly embody the motoring company's previously used maxim “Adventure. It’s in our DNA”.
Whether you or someone special loves Land Rovers, country sports, or exceptionally well conceived compositions, one of Anthony's stunning limited edition prints could be right up your street – or even make the ideal gift for someone special this Christmas.
*On Safari and Coming Home are also available as stunning original oil paintings.
