The Poacher — Early 19th-Century Hand-Colored Fox Engraving After Edwin Landseer in Original Frame

An evocative early 19th-century sporting engraving titled The Poacher, depicting a fox low to the ground amid an English landscape. The composition is after Sir Edwin Henry Landseer and was engraved by his brother Thomas Landseer, part of the celebrated Landseer tradition of British sporting and animal subjects.

The image retains delicate period hand coloring in warm russet, soft green, ochre and muted earth tones. Especially appealing is its original presentation: a substantial stained oak frame with coordinating oak matting and a narrow gilt inner trim that gives the small-scale work a wonderfully architectural presence.

A beautifully collected piece of English sporting art with exactly the patina and character we look for at Martingale East.

CONDITION
Antique condition consistent with age and frame is in particularly fragile condition with original glass. The original stained oak frame and oak matting show expected surface wear, abrasions, variations in finish, small marks and age-related patina. There is minor damage to upper right hand corner of frame that does not affect the items ability to be displayed beautifully. Original gilt trim retains age-appropriate wear. The engraving itself shows toning and subtle age-related variation consistent with an antique work on paper. These characteristics are part of the piece’s authentic period character. Overall, piece is absolutely stunning and is extremely rich in character.

SIZE
12.5"L x 10"W x 1.25"D overall

PROVENANCE
English, early 19th century, circa 1825

MAKER
After Sir Edwin Henry Landseer
Engraved by Thomas Landseer

MATERIAL
Hand-colored engraving on paper; original stained oak frame; oak matting; original gilt trim

STYLING SUGGESTION
Display The Poacher on a small antique brass easel atop a dark wood console, writing desk or library shelf layered with old sporting books, blue-and-white porcelain and aged brass. Its intimate scale also makes it especially good within a collected gallery wall, where the dark oak frame provides beautiful contrast against larger oils and sporting prints.