‘Into the perilous flood’ (1794)

Samuel Howitt's vivid painting, "Into the perilous flood," painted in 1794, transports viewers into a dramatic and dynamic moment of action. This work illustrates a gripping fox hunting scene, embodying the fervor and risk associated with this traditional sport. We see three hunters on horseback at the focal point of the composition, each portrayed in mid-motion as they navigate a turbulent river.The leftmost rider, donned in blue, expertly guides his horse through the water, looking ahead with determination. In the center, another hunter in white directs his horse which leaps energetically from the riverbank, illustrating both the prowess and desperation of the moment. To the right, a figure in red demonstrates urgency and focus, encouraging his horse onward, which adds to the sensation of movement and immediacy in the painting.The background features rugged, tree-lined landscapes and a river that winds into the distance, suggesting the expansive nature of such hunts. Howitt's skill in capturing both the beauty and the peril of the scene is evident through his detailed rendering of the splashing water, the strained muscles of the horses, and the intense expressions of the riders.This piece not only reflects the challenges and excitement of fox hunting but also serves as a compelling historical document, capturing the essence of late 18th-century British country pursuits.