The American newspaper empire of William Randolph Hearst published this postcard illustration of a quintessential English event, the Fox hunt.

Although fox hunting is now restricted in the United Kingdom, the “sport” had been taken up in parts of the United States and still can be found here.

In the “horse country” of Virginia, one might still ride to hounds, and (at least in the 1970’s) the large DuPont estates in Pennsylvania and Delaware held hunts.

The postcard illustration appears to be a painting, although I could not see an artist’s signature.

After a vigorous morning ride, two men, still in “pinks”, relax with pipes before a fire.  A servant attends them; it is likely that a generous hunt breakfast has already been served.

The postcard was not mailed, but suffered scratches and creases since it was cut out by hand.

An early morning Ride is great fun, although the Fox Hunt has no utility in modern times,

Lounging before a fire after exercise and a hearty breakfast is always an appealing prospect.