Published by JA Allen in 1975, Colin Lewis' beautiful book is a comprehensive look at the history, evolution, organization and economics of mounted hunts and field sports across the Irish landscape.
Should prove of interest to anyone interested in the sport of hunting, but also for historians interested in the development of the sport and the influence the sport has had on the rural landscape.
I found the influence of the sport on breeding interesting also; there is good detail on the different horses bred for different hunts across different country.
In short, a pen portrait of a very special and distinct equestrian culture as well as the definitive historical and geographical
Imagine - this house as your hunting box to use as a base!
A typical stable yard.
The healthy export market for non-thoroughbreds in 1972 shows the value placed on purpose-bred Irish hunters.
And an example of the challenges faced by these fabulous horses!
The many different hunts (and quarries!) across the island of Ireland.
