Hailing from London, England, Edwin Henry Hunt (1840-1925) was an accomplished engraver, predominantly known for racing subjects.
Hunt’s formative years were spent surrounded by the arts. His father Charles Hunt I (1803-1877) was an established genre painter and his brother*, Charles Hunt II, followed suit. The family initially lived in Covent Garden, amid the theatres, traders, and printsellers, which gave them ample opportunity to connect with patrons and forge their careers.
Both Edwin and Charles II produced sporting engravings for long-established printseller George Rees. Rees’ was, at the time, based opposite the popular Drury Lane Theatre and undoubtedly captured the attention of affluent passers-by. Equestrian subjects were popular, particularly those relating to horse racing.
Edwin and Charles II both worked in aquatint, often producing both the drawing and plate. The results are remarkably similar - gently tinted backgrounds combined with bolder representations of the main subject. Edwin also turned his hand to greyhounds.
The pair depicted various winners, “Dutch Oven”, “Shotover”, “Wild Mint” and “Princess Dagmar”. Each in a style inspired by their eminent peer, John Frederick Herring Senior (1795-1865).
After leaving the family home, Edwin spent the remainder of his life in Islington, at one point boarding with his sister.
Charles Hunt II is assumed by many to have been the son of Charles Hunt I although this isn't entirely clear from the census records available. Edwin, however, is listed at the family home. It seems likely that Charles Hunt II was directly related given the similarity of the brothers’ styles and the fact they both worked for George Rees.
Timeline
1840
Born in Covent Garden, London to Charles and Elizabeth.
1851
Lived at the family home in St Pancras, London.
1861
Lived at the family home in Westminster, London.
1881
Lived in Islington, London.
1891
Lived at a boarding house in Islington, London run by his sister Elizabeth. One of the occupants, Elizabeth Rowbotham, was a miniature painter.
1901
Lived in Islington, London.
1925
Died in Islington, London.