Foxhound c. 18th century

Curator: Here we have "Foxhound" by Samuel Howitt, active in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Editor: Ooh, I like this! I immediately feel the thrill of the hunt. The way the dogs are poised, alert... it's all tension and anticipation. Curator: Howitt was known for his sporting and animal subjects, reflecting the aristocratic interests of his time. This print speaks to the culture of hunting and its social significance. Editor: It also feels very British, doesn't it? Like a scene from a novel where everyone's always off to the countryside. It's elegant, but also a little bit ruthless. Curator: The printmaking process itself is interesting; it allowed for wider distribution of these images, bringing the aristocratic pastime to a broader audience. Editor: I'm really drawn to the energy here. It's not just a picture of dogs, it's a snapshot of raw instinct. The dogs seem to be baying for something. Curator: Yes, and by viewing this print, we see not only the artistry but also a window into a specific social and historical context. Editor: Right. I think it really puts me in the frame of mind of a hunter of that time.