The Kill (1792)

Samuel Howitt’s enchanting painting, 'The Kill,' created in 1792, vividly brings to life the climax and crescendo of a traditional fox hunt set in a dense, forested landscape. Howitt, known for his adept skill in illustrating animals and hunting scenes, masterfully conveys the rush and tumult of the hunt reaching its critical moment.In the painting, a group of hunters, elegantly attired in traditional hunting garb consisting of bright red and muted blue jackets, are depicted amidst the frenzied culmination of the hunt. The hunters, both male and female, are mounted on spirited horses, their postures conveying a mix of excitement and command over the event unfolding. One of the riders, prominently positioned and pointing, seems to command attention either towards the kill or to direct the hounds.The hounds, a crucial element of the scene, swarm the focal point of the painting—their prey—with a mixture of ferocity and obedience. Their forms are a swirl of motion and energy, painted with such detail and dynamism that one can almost hear the baying and see their coats fluttering in their frenzy.The backdrop of the painting is a lush, immersive forest. Trees with thick canopy branches and detailed foliage frame the chaotic main scene, providing a stark contrast to the raw energy of the hunt. A few patches of the sky are visible through the tree canopies, hinting at the expansiveness of the outdoors beyond the immediate tumult.Samuel Howitt’s 'The Kill' is a compelling depiction of not only the literal moment within a fox hunt but also a portrayal of the broader cultural practices of rural England at the end of the 18th century.