William Hogarth

William Hogarth

William Hogarth (1697-1764) was a famous printmaker, English painter, social critic, pictorial satirist, and editorial cartoonist. He is popularly known for his series Marriage A-la-Mode, A Harlot's Progress, and A Rake's Progress. His work on modern moral subjects ranges from a comic strip. Italian and French paintings and engraving very much influenced him.

His life and career:

William Hogarth was born on 10 November 1697 in London, England. His father, Richard, was a well-educated schoolmaster, a classical scholar, and had many other professions but not more wealth. For this, Hogarth had moved to many places near Smithfield Market at an early age. At that time, Infant mortality rates were high in the region, which had led to the loss of his older brother and two sisters. William Hogarth and his sisters Mary and Ann could survive from this infant mortality. 

In 1708, their family faced hugged difficulties as their father fell into debt and was imprisoned. After that, William Hogarth had taken the responsibilities of the family for four years. At that time, London's East End was a crime-ridden area, which had a huge impact on his choice of subjects and his later career.

William Hogarth was unlikely to have attended school because of their financial issues. But he had learned Latin and French language from his father. Later, he was apprenticed to a silver engraver when he reached his 16 age. His engraving items were watch cases, cutlery, and plates with heraldic designs. But later, he felt bored of this job as he had a pleasant and friendly character. He used to love befriending writers, actors, and musicians, as well as he used to visit coffee houses and theaters. His love for theater can be seen in his later works. He also loves to explore the nearby streets of the city for sketching the characters.

In March 1729, Hogarth and Jane, who was the Thornhill daughter, eloped. They lived a very happy life in London, but they never had children. At this time, he got recognition with critical and commercial success.

His Notable works:

Painter and his Pug: This painting was a self-portrait by William Hogarth, published in 1745. This painting was intended to paint Hogarth wearing formal attire, but he made changes to the informal attire while doing the painting.

Marriage A-la-Mode: This painting was published between 1743 to 1745. William Hogarth has made six pictures of Marriage A-la-Mode. This painting was made to show the heartbreaking tragedy of an ill-considered marriage for money. Presently, it can be found at National Gallery, London. 

Industry and Idleness: In this painting, William Hogarth has shown the lives progression of two apprentices. Here, one side shows the idle and commits a crime, and the other shows dedication and hard work. This work was published in 1747. 

Beer Street and Gin Lane: This painting work was published in 1751. This painting by William Hogarth indicates a happy city drinking the 'good' beverage. 

The Four Stages of Cruelty: This painting was published on 21 February 1751. In this picture, Hogarth had shown the cruel treatment of animals. 

A Harlot's Progress: In this painting, Hogarth had shown the fate of a country girl who started prostituting. This painting was published in 1731.

A Rake's Progress: This painting was published between 1733 to 1735. This picture shows the decline of Tom Rakewell with gambling and prostitution that resulted in imprisonment. 

William Hogarth had taken his last breath on 26 October 1764 when he was 66. His death place was London, England. If you want to have William Hogarth's famous paintings, you must look for expertise work services.