Robert Stone (1820-1870)
The hunt in full cry
Oil on canvas
10 x 15 1/2 in
25.4 x 39.4 cm
25.4 x 39.4 cm
Rudolf Stone was a British artist active in the late 19th century, best known for his evocative sporting scenes, particularly those depicting fox hunting. His works capture the energy and excitement of the hunt, often illustrating key moments such as The Meet, Setting Off, In Full Gallop, and The Kill. Stone frequently painted in series, producing groups of four or six panels that portrayed different stages of a hunt. His preferred medium was oil on wood panel, a choice that allowed him to showcase his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to convey movement with remarkable precision. His paintings have remained highly sought after by collectors and have been featured in major auctions. Notably, a set of works titled On the Scent and The Chase was auctioned at Christie's London in 2001, alongside other collections depicting various phases of a fox hunt. Although little is known about his personal life, Stone’s legacy endures through his contributions to British sporting art. His paintings offer a vivid portrayal of traditional hunting culture and the English countryside, capturing both the spirit of the sport and the landscape in which it took place.