Victorian Oil Painting C.1880 The Death The Berkeley Hunt

Victorian Oil Painting c.1880 — “The Death (The Berkeley Hunt)”Charles Faulkner (British, active c.1874–1900)(This painting is number 4 of 4 in Faulkner’s Berkeley Hunt series. The other three works are available separately. If you wish to purchase the complete set, please contact us.)Subject & MediumExecuted in oil on board, this work depicts the climactic moment of “The Death”—the traditional conclusion of an English foxhunt. The scene is associated with The Berkeley Hunt, one of Britain’s oldest and most historically significant hunts, with origins stretching back centuries in the Gloucestershire countryside.Faulkner’s use of board provides a firm, smooth surface ideal for controlled brushwork and crisp articulation. His palette—comprising layered greys, umbers, and muted greens—creates a unified atmosphere characteristic of Victorian sporting imagery and the cool tones of rural Gloucestershire.Composition & TechniqueFaulkner constructs the painting around a strong diagonal movement, guiding the viewer directly into the final tension of the chase. Horses are rendered with meticulous anatomical accuracy, their musculature modelled through short, deliberate strokes. The hounds move in coordinated formation, described through rhythmic, curved textures that convey urgency and unity.The surrounding landscape is treated with softer, atmospheric handling to establish depth without drawing attention away from the central action. Faulkner’s tonal control and sensitivity to light evoke the overcast conditions typical of the region, grounding the composition in an authentic sense of place.About the Artist – Charles Faulkner (Active c.1874–1900)Charles Faulkner specialized in equestrian and hunting subjects, producing works highly valued by collectors of Victorian sporting art. His paintings consistently display:Strong anatomical understandingClear narrative pacing and momentumAccurate, expressive treatment of hounds and horsesA restrained, earthy colour palette aligned with 19th-century sporting traditionThough little documentation survives about his personal life, Faulkner’s artistic output is cohesive and recognisable, with “C. Faulkner” signatures appearing across authenticated works of the late 19th century.SignatureSigned “C. Faulkner” in the lower corner, consistent with verified examples of the artist’s hand.FrameRecently reframed in a high-quality Larson-Juhl moulding and fitted with AR70 low-reflection, UV-protective glass. This glazing improves clarity, reduces glare, and protects the painting against light-related deterioration. The overall presentation meets museum-display standards.Framed Dimensions: 41 cm (W) × 26.5 cm (H) × 4 cm (D)ProvenanceGloucestershire Art & Antiques DealerHarriet Wynter, Interior Decorations & Antiques, BrightonPrivate CollectionCurated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTDExhibited at the Famous Lord Hill Museum, Shropshire (2025)This strong provenance supports both authenticity and long-term collector confidence.Why This Work Stands OutRare and atmospheric depiction of the historic Berkeley HuntA classic and highly desirable Victorian foxhunting subjectMuseum-exhibited, enhancing both cultural significance and market appealNewly framed with premium Larson-Juhl moulding and AR70 glazingVersatile, elegant size suitable for studies, libraries, hallways, and curated gallery wallsExemplary of Faulkner’s storytelling: movement, tension, and rural characterIdeal for collectors of equestrian art, Victorian painting, and British sporting heritageConditionOverall, the painting is in good condition for its age (c.1880). The surface shows stable Victorian brushwork with Faulkner’s characteristic short, directional strokes across the sky, landscape, and moving figures.Fine, natural micro-craquelureSome foxing to the sky areaVery minor areas of paint lossEven varnish layer with a balanced sheenBoard remains flat, secure, and free from warpingRecently reframed and protected with AR70 low-reflection UV-filtering glassThe work is clean, stable, and ready to hang.ShippingWorldwide shipping available. Professionally packaged and fully insured for safe international delivery.