This is a single antique hand-colored aquatint engraving titled Breaking Cover, depicting a dynamic fox-hunting scene with riders in red coats on horseback pursuing hounds as the fox breaks from cover in a wooded landscape. It is part of a renowned series of four untitled fox-hunting prints by the celebrated British sporting artist Henry Thomas Alken (1785–1851), which capture the key stages of a hunt: Going to Cover, Full Cry, Breaking Cover, and The Death. The image shows equestrians in period attire navigating rugged terrain amid bare winter trees, with hounds in pursuit, evoking the excitement and tradition of 19th-century English fox hunting. The composition is panoramic and lively, characteristic of Alken's mastery in capturing motion and atmosphere in sporting art.

The print was drawn by Henry Alken (inscribed "Alken Del.t" in the lower left, meaning delineavit or "drew by") and engraved by Thomas Sutherland (inscribed "T. Sutherland Sculp.t" in the lower right, meaning sculpsit or "engraved by"). It bears the publication line at the bottom center: "Breaking Cover London Published August 1821," confirming its origin as an original period impression from London, England. The medium is aquatint with etching, printed in colors and finished by hand for vibrant reds, greens, and earth tones on laid paper. The plate size is approximately 11.5" x 18.5" (291 x 470 mm), with the overall framed dimensions measuring about 16" x 23" as noted. The frame is a later addition, likely mid-20th century, with a dark wood or ebonized finish and gilt inner lip, showing some wear, chips, and minor losses consistent with age. A framer's label on the verso reads "Sural Arts Shop, 628 61st St., Southampton, N.Y., Del. Summer No." (likely from a Southampton, Long Island, New York framing shop, possibly 1950s–1970s based on style). The backing is aged cardboard with wire hanger remnants, and there is minor foxing or toning to margins, but the image area remains bright and well-preserved with no significant tears, creases, or restoration visible.

Age: 203 years old (dated to its publication in 1821; this is an original first-edition impression, not a later restrike).

Usage and Condition: Condition is good for its age—hand-coloring is fresh and unfaded, with strong contrasts and no damage to the printed surface. Minor edge toning are present, but these do not detract from the overall appeal. The frame shows patina (cracks, gilding wear) but is stable; professional reframing could enhance value if desired.

Origin: Produced in London, England, by the artist/engraver collaboration typical of Regency-era sporting prints. Alken, from a family of artists, specialized in humorous and action-packed hunting scenes popular among the British aristocracy. This series is referenced in collector catalogs like Mellon/Snelgrove 16, highlighting its historical significance in British printmaking.