This is one of two paintings that Joseph Swift painted for the McNeil family, and possibly the only one featuring a bull. Written across the bottom of the painting is “HARD FORTUNE at five years old, weight 2200 lbs. Has taken five first prises [sic] at provincial Exhibition, and three diplomas for best bull of any kind. The property of Arthur McNeil esq. Vaughan.” Swift’s paintings of prizewinning animals are a reflection on the proud owners who were willing to spend the necessary funds to capture the moment of their achievement.