Artwork

After the Hounds

After the Hounds, by William Henry Shelton, ink, 1886
After the Hounds, by William Henry Shelton, ink, 1886

After the Hounds is an ink print by the Impressionist artist William Henry Shelton. It dates from 1886 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

After the Hounds is an 1886 etching by William Henry Shelton, depicting a woman on horseback navigating a wooded terrain accompanied by a pack of dogs in pursuit of an unseen quarry.

Subject & Meaning

The subject centers on a female rider, dressed in a long coat and hat, guiding her horse through a rocky, grass-patched wooded area with a loose rein, as a group of dogs rushes ahead, chasing something out of sight. The scene conveys a sense of serene, controlled participation in a hunting scenario.

Technique & Style

Shelton employed etching techniques to achieve textured, three-dimensional effects, notably in the horse's fur and the dogs' coats, utilizing shading to add depth to the monochrome print. This method allowed for detailed representation without relying on color.

History & Provenance

Created in 1886, specific details regarding the artwork's provenance and historical context beyond its creation year are not provided.

Context

Understanding the piece benefits from knowledge of etching processes, involving acid and metal plates, which facilitated the creation of intricate, detailed prints like this one during the late 19th century.

Legacy

Information on the lasting impact, influence, or reception of 'After the Hounds' in the broader art historical narrative is not supplied.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.