Going Out in the Morning Possibly 1786

Thomas Rowlandson created 'Going Out in the Morning' as a print using etching and aquatint, resulting in soft tonal gradations and delicate lines. At first glance, one is struck by a sense of bustling activity as huntsmen and their hounds gather at the forest edge. Rowlandson's formal arrangement contributes significantly to the narrative. The composition is roughly divided into two halves: the left side filled with the jumble of horses and riders, and the right side dominated by the pack of hounds. The layering of figures creates depth, but also a sense of disarray, perhaps hinting at the chaotic nature of the hunt itself. Color is used to draw the eye, with splashes of red and blue amidst the earth tones, creating a sense of visual rhythm that guides the viewer through the scene. By focusing on the energy of the composition, Rowlandson invites us to consider how an artwork's formal elements shape our perception and understanding. This print reflects a time and a culture, but it also challenges us to interpret its meanings.