19th Century English Fox Hunting Color Engraving “Evening” by E.A.S. Douglas

$1,800

About

Capturing the quiet return from a day in the field, this handsome antique English sporting engraving is titled Evening: Returning to the Kennels. Crafted in England circa 1877, the work was published in London by Arthur Ackermann, 191 Regent Street, after an original painting by British sporting artist Edward Algernon Stuart Douglas and engraved by Edward Gilbert Hester.

The composition depicts two mounted huntsmen in traditional scarlet coats moving along a wooded country lane with a large pack of foxhounds gathered around their horses. Autumn foliage, rustic fencing, and a softly overcast sky create an atmospheric setting, while the carefully observed horses and hounds give the scene the strong sporting character associated with Victorian English hunting art.

Edward Algernon Stuart Douglas was a British painter known for genre scenes, sporting subjects, animals, horses, and fox hunting compositions. Active during the second half of the 19th century and into the early 20th century, he exhibited at the Royal Academy between 1880 and 1892. His work reflects the great Victorian tradition of sporting painting, with particular attention to equestrian subjects, working hounds, and scenes of country life. Douglas is listed in Bénézit, where his career and numerous sporting and hunting works are documented.

The lower margin retains the original printed inscriptions, including “Painted by E.A.S. Douglas,” “Engraved by E.G. Hester,” and the title Evening: Returning to the Kennels, together with the London publishing information for Arthur Ackermann. The finely rendered color and detailed engraving beautifully convey the movement of the pack and the subdued mood of the returning hunt.

Presented under glass in a later black frame with a broad cream mat, the engraving is in excellent condition commensurate with age and use. A refined addition to a library, study, hunt room, sporting collection, or traditional English-inspired interior.

Dimensions: 27” W x 32” H

Additional information