Going Out in the Morning (1807)

Samuel Howitt’s painting, "Going Out in the Morning," captures a bustling, early morning scene set amidst an encampment under a vast, sweeping sky. This remarkable composition is filled with diverse elements that portray a sense of adventure and activity characteristic of the early 19th century.In the painting, a group of people, elegantly attired, prepare for an outing. Several majestic elephants stand at the ready, bordered by towering trees and palm heaven in the background, adding an exotic feel to the scene. The elephants, adorned with colorful cloths, carry riders who appear to be of European descent, suggesting a colonial setting. One of the elephants even carries a grand howdah, indicating the presence of persons of significant status.To the left, various individuals engage in preparations for the journey, adjusting equipment and conversing lightly. The inclusion of spirited dogs adds a lively touch, enhancing the overall dynamism of the scene. Their presence, along with the array of horses seen in different states of readiness, points to a hunting excursion or a similar venture.The background reveals a subtly detailed encampment with tents, around which people perform various tasks, from tending to horses to socializing. The diffuse light of morning bathes the entire scene, enriching the colors and textures of the attire and the natural surroundings.Samuel Howitt’s skill in depicting this richly detailed, lively scene not only reflects his artistic prowess but also offers a glimpse into the colonial adventures of the time.