Victorian Oil Painting The Meet The Berkeley Hunt by Charles Faulkner

Victorian Sporting Painting – The Meet (The Berkeley Hunt), c.1880 by Charles Faulkner. This painting is one of a set of four. The remaining three works from the series are available separately. If you wish to purchase the full set, please feel free to message us. Subject & Medium:- Executed in oil on board, this evocative sporting scene captures The Meet—the formal gathering of huntsmen and hounds before the chase begins. Set in the historic Berkeley Vale, Gloucestershire, home to the renowned Berkeley Hunt, the composition reflects the poise, etiquette, and quiet anticipation that accompany the start of a traditional Victorian hunt. The rigid board support allows Faulkner to achieve clean, sharp detailing and atmospheric precision—hallmarks of his celebrated sporting style. Composition & Technique:- Faulkner presents a serene, disciplined prelude to the day’s pursuit. Huntsmen in traditional scarlet coats assemble in an orderly formation; some converse calmly while others make final adjustments to their horses. Nearby, hounds and whippers-in wait in focused stillness, their pale coats catching the soft morning light. Winter hedgerows and bare trees—painted in deep browns, muted umbers, and earthy greens—evoke the late-season Gloucestershire landscape. Above, an expansive grey sky rendered in textured strokes of silver-blue adds movement and atmosphere. The interplay of vivid scarlet coats against a subdued rural palette typifies Victorian sporting aesthetics. Faulkner’s brushwork is meticulous and expressive: Fine, controlled strokes model equine anatomy and riding attire. Short, rhythmic marks animate the overcast sky. Subtle impasto creates highlights on coats and tack. Quick, lively touches define the gathered hounds. Gentle scumbling and glazing unify the landscape. The result is a richly detailed and quietly ceremonial image—an exemplary Victorian interpretation of the hunt’s opening ritual. About the Artist – Charles Faulkner (Active c.1874–1900) Charles Faulkner is admired for his spirited portrayals of foxhunting, equestrian subjects, and traditional rural life. His work is distinguished by: Sensitive, accurate observation of horses and hounds Strong narrative pacing and atmospheric depth Faithful depiction of hunt etiquette and costume Faulkner’s paintings remain highly desirable examples of 19th Century British sporting art. Signature:- Signed “C. Faulkner” at the lower right. Framing:- Presented in a newly fitted, decorative Larson-Juhl moulding with AR70 low-reflection, UV-protective glass. This premium glazing enhances clarity, dramatically reduces glare, prevents fading, and elevates the work to a museum-quality display. A refined and versatile size, ideal for studies, hallways, libraries, or gallery-style arrangements. Provenance:- Gloucestershire Art & Antiques Dealer Harriet Wynter, Interior Decorations & Antiques, Brighton Private Collection:- Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD Exhibited at The Famous Lord Hill Museum, Shropshire (2025) Why You’ll Love It A rare and atmospheric portrayal of the Berkeley Hunt Strong Victorian equestrian narrative filled with character and detail Beautifully balanced palette: vivid scarlets, cool greys, and earthy tones Confident draughtsmanship and authentic sporting brushwork Museum-exhibited with secure and reliable provenance Upgraded with Larson-Juhl framing and AR70 museum glass