Grow ye Britons then (1794)

"Grow ye Britons then," a 1794 artwork by Samuel Howitt, masterfully captures the essence of hunting, a cherished tradition among the British aristocracy and gentry. This painting elegantly depicts the dynamic of a traditional fox hunt, a ritual symbolic of social interaction as well as the human affinity with nature and animals.In the foreground, three mounted hunters are portrayed in vibrant and refined attire, which not only highlights their status but also adds a vivid contrast to the subtle, earthy tones of the natural backdrop. Each rider shows a distinct pose; the central figure in red with his back turned oversees the action, pointing forward with his riding crop, presumably directing attention towards the ongoing chase or signaling the next move in the hunt.The painting is lined with bare, leafless trees, signaling a typical chilly, autumn or winter day suited for hunting activities, enhancing the seasonal context of the scene. In a small clearing behind the primary group of hunters, a separate figure vigorously chases after hounds which have picked up the scent trail. This scene encapsulates the intense, pulsating energy of the hunt, while also invoking the vastness and beauty of rural Britain.Samuel Howitt's piece is not merely an illustration of a sporting event; it is a vivid portrayal of cultural identity, showcasing the social and recreational pursuits of 18th-century Britain. The caption, "Your sportive fury Briton's then. Loose on the mighty lords of the fold," aptly mirrors the vigorous and sometimes perilous hunt depicted in the artwork.