Stag-hunting c. 18th century

Editor: Here we have Samuel Howitt's "Stag-hunting." The scene is alive with energy; dogs swarm around a horse and rider in pursuit. What does this piece tell us about the role of hunting in society at the time? Curator: It’s a fascinating glimpse into the socio-political landscape. Hunting was not merely a sport, but a demonstration of power and land ownership among the elite. Consider how the image itself might function within that context. Who would have commissioned or consumed such a print? Editor: Probably those very elites, to celebrate or perhaps even advertise their status? Curator: Precisely! It reinforces existing power structures. The controlled landscape, the trained animals, all speak to a world meticulously shaped by those in charge. Editor: So, it's not just a depiction of hunting, but a statement about societal control. I'll never look at a hunting scene the same way again!