The elegance of the rider and horse, after which this painting is titled, is emphasised by the ease at which the rider is being presented. Her grace is not something which is forced, but something that comes naturally, a quality which makes the scene all the more appealing. She has just turned her head towards us, bringing the viewer into the work, and with her mouth slightly parted appears to be mid-conversation. The hound trotting jovially at her heel suggests that they are hacking back after a days hunting, or perhaps just taking a slower time at the back of the field. The horse is on a long rein, neck stretched out, but still in perfect balance. Like her rider, elegant even when relaxed. The rider is immaculately turned out and this, accompanied by the sophistication evoked by her clothes and her seat, creates a captivating scene of English elegance.