The Berkeley Hunt, 1842- Full Cry Francis Calcraft Turner (1782-1846)

Here we observe a dynamic scene depicting a group engaged in a pursuit across a vast landscape. The foreground is dominated by several figures on horseback, caught mid-leap over a substantial hedge or embankment. These riders are dressed in formal attire – dark coats, scarlet jackets, and top hats – suggesting an upper-class social standing. Their postures convey a sense of exhilaration and control as they navigate the terrain.
The composition extends significantly into the middle ground, where a large pack of hounds is visible, their forms rendered with energetic brushstrokes that capture movement. A considerable number of other figures on horseback are scattered across this expanse, some following closely behind the lead group, others appearing further afield. The scale of the hound pack and the numerous riders emphasizes the communal nature of the activity, suggesting a social ritual as much as a sporting pursuit.
The background reveals a sweeping panorama of rolling hills and distant woodlands under an overcast sky. A sense of depth is created through atmospheric perspective; the colors become muted and less distinct with distance, contributing to the impression of immense space. The landscape itself appears somewhat barren, hinting at a rural setting perhaps in autumn or winter.
Subtleties within the painting suggest layers of meaning beyond the immediate depiction of a hunt. The formality of the riders’ attire contrasts with the ruggedness of the terrain they traverse, highlighting a tension between social convention and natural environment. The sheer number of participants implies not only leisure but also a display of wealth and status – a demonstration of access to land and resources. The overcast sky might be interpreted as symbolic, perhaps hinting at underlying anxieties or uncertainties that lie beneath the surface of this seemingly carefree scene. Overall, the work presents a carefully constructed portrayal of an aristocratic pastime, imbued with social commentary and a keen observation of the natural world.