George H. Bailey was a contemporary of Scott Leighton. Bailey was an artist, however, he was also a Maine Harness Horseman, an owner, trainer, driver, and judge at the tracks. He may have been a track manager. In addition, at the age of 55, he studied veterinarian medicine in New York State. Upon his returned he filled the role of Maine State Veterinarian.
Prior to the publication the book’s publication in 1874, J.W. Thompson selected this painting as the front engraving of of his book, Noted Maine Horses, Vol. 1.