Unkenneling

Francis Calcraft Turner was a prolific artist, though surprisingly little is known of his early life. The majority of his hunting scenes show hunts from the south of England, including the Essex Hounds, the East Kent, and the Old Barkeley. He was a regular contributor to The Sporting Magazine, providing no less than 78 works. In a letter to the editor in 1828 he claimed I have rode to more hounds and have been in at the death of more foxes than any artist in existence - nay more, my knowledge of racing, shooting, coursing, etc. is alike.

H.R.H. Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester and his wife lived mainly at Barnwell Manor in Northamptonshire. It had been a Buccleuch property, but passed out of the family's possession in the early 20th century. The couple loved their country home and the Duke was very interested in the estate and farming. Among his private passions were horses and country sports. He played excellent polo and was a renowned amateur jockey. In addition, he was a keen huntsman, shot and angler - indeed his interest in both horses and country sports shines through his collection of works of art and his library. H.R.H. Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester was greatly encouraged in forming his collection by both his mother and father. King George V is celebrated as one of the greatest collector of stamps and Queen Mary was also a particularly avid collector in many areas.