The artwork titled “Greyhounds Coursing a Fox” was created by Thomas Gainsborough between 1784 and 1785. Executed in oil on canvas, it belongs to the Rococo art movement and falls within the genre of animal painting.
In the artwork, the viewer’s attention is captured by the dynamic scene of a chase, where two greyhounds pursue a fox. The painting masterfully depicts this moment of high tension set against a richly detailed, natural background. The colors are warm and vibrant, characteristic of the Rococo style, with a particular emphasis on the play of light and shadow. The greyhounds, rendered with fluid lines and careful attention to anatomy, portray a sense of swiftness and immediacy. The lush, wooded landscape in the background provides depth and context, creating a balanced composition that emphasizes the interaction between the animals and their environment.