Antique Aquatint “Coursing” Nichols & Bluck aft Reinagle Hunting Dogs Chasing Rabbit

A rare aquatint engraving “Coursing” by William Nichols and Bluck after the painting by Philip Reinagle (1749-1833, RA). Aquatint engraving on paper, depicting lithe hunting dogs chasing a rabbit in the foreground and horses with riders in the background. Old gallery label verso for Russell Button Inc. a Chicago gallery active during the mid 20th century. Framed in wood frame matted under glass. Measures 28in x 24in framed and 20.5in x 16.5in sight. Condition: Drip mark lower left, two small creases or possibly tears at bottom left in margin area, not examined out of frame. The engravers, Nichols & Bluck, were both well respected for their work in stipple and aquatint and collaborated on this delightful print. Philip Reinagle began his career as a portrait painter and pupil of the court painter, Alan Ramsay. It was, however, in the field of sporting art that he really flourished as evidenced by the dynamic energy in this image.