3-034-881 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

"Waiting For The Shot," by James Hardy, Jun. in the Dudley Gallery, 1871. Engraving of a painting. 'To lovers of deer-stalking this picture will probably have a stronger sporting than artistic interest. It indicates the supreme moment of suspense in one of the most exciting kinds of field sport. The game is sighted, but at the slightest sign it may vanish, and no chance of overtaking the same herd would in all likelihood be presented for many weary miles. The stalkers must not betray their covert till the far-ranging rifle-bullet has a chance of striking. The shot fired, then the dogs may be let loose, but not one moment before. If a hit. they may yet have far to run before they bring the stag to bay or pull him down. While, however, recognising the special interest of this picture by Mr. James Hardy, jun., to the sportsman, we must not ignore its pictorial merit. It is a capital study of character. The cowering old gillie, with his grizzled hair, weather-worn face, and sharp, grey eye, seems to be almost of the same breed as the leash of shaggy deerhounds, with their sagacious alertness and their bright keen eyes; and the characteristics, both human and canine, are rendered with very skilful and descriptive handling'. From "Illustrated London News", 1871.