To the present-day viewer, this subject seems a strangely cruel one to choose. However, the flushed and grimacing huntsman was probably intended to be seen as part of the savagery of nature. The otter itself is shown as savage but courageous, continuing to strike back though mortally wounded. Its prey of two salmon lie dead on the bank.

Otter hunting continued into the late 19th century.
The artist Edwin Landseer was famous for his ability to paint animals and the silky sheen of their coats.

Provenance: Gift from Lord Joicey, 1924

Object description
Type: Easel painting
Location: Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Tyne & Wear
Material: Oil on canvas
Artist: Sir Edwin Henry Landseer (1802-1873)
Date: 1844

Image Details
Date: 15 April 2023
Camera body: iPhone Xs
Lens: Wide Camera 26mm ƒ/1.8
Focal Length: 26mm
Aperture: ƒ/1.8
Shutter Speed: 1/32s
ISO: 400
Licensing: Image of a North East Museums asset. This image cannot be licensed.