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English lady riding sidesaddle in a fox hunt, 19th century
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English lady riding sidesaddle in a fox hunt, 19th century
English lady riding sidesaddle in a fox hunt, 19th century. Lord Marchhare points out the fox and hounds to Rosa McDermott. Rosa and the Earl. Handcoloured steel engraving after an illustration by John Leech from Robert Smith Surtees Plain or Ringlets?, Bradbury and Evans London, 1860. Leech (1817-1864) was an English caricaturist and illustrator best known for his work for Punch magazine
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Media ID 23388492
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Check Cheque Comical Debt Fireplace Form Gambling Gentleman Humor Hunt Jasper Leech Lounging Mere Newspaper Outrage Parents Parlour Payment Plain Ringlets Shock Sidesaddle Surtees Wager Matter Smith
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This handcoloured steel engraving, created by John Leech in 1860, depicts an English lady named Rosa McDermott, elegantly riding sidesaddle in a fox hunt during the 19th century. The scene unfolds at a grand estate, where the Earl, identified as Lord Marchhare, points out the fox and hounds to Rosa, adding an air of excitement to the chase. The parlor setting, with its ornate fireplace, plush armchair, and a gentleman lounging with a newspaper, creates a stark contrast to the thrilling hunt taking place outside. The Earl's nonchalant attitude towards the hunt, while Rosa appears to be fully engaged, adds a touch of comical humor to the image. The Victorian era, known for its rigid social norms, would have found this scene shocking and outrageous. Parents would have disapproved of their daughters participating in such activities, which were considered unladylike. However, Rosa's determination to join the hunt, despite potential disapproval, showcases her bold and adventurous spirit. The captioned illustration, taken from Robert Smith Surtees' book "Plain or Ringlets?", is a testament to the era's intricacies. The characters' backstories are hinted at through subtle details, such as the Earl's casual reading of a newspaper, Rosa's involvement in the hunt, and the potential financial woes suggested by a bounced check or gambling debts. John Leech, a renowned English caricaturist and illustrator, masterfully captured the essence of this scene, blending humor and social commentary in a single image. This print offers a glimpse into the Victorian era, showcasing the contrasting worlds of the hunt and the parlor, and the audacity of a woman who dared to break free from societal expectations.
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