William Hogarth

Style: Classicism; Baroque; Rococo;

Place: London

Born: 1697

Death: 1764

Biography:

Early Life and Influences

, a multifaceted English artist, was born on November 10, 1697, in London. His early life was marked by his apprenticeship to engraver Ellis Gamble in Leicester Fields, where he developed his skills in trade card engraving. This experience significantly influenced his artistic tone, often noted for its sharp, critical edge.

Artistic Career

Hogarth's creative range spanned from realistic portraiture to pioneering comic-like picture series, termed "modern moral subjects." He is famously recognized for his works A Harlot's Progress, A Rake's Progress, and Marriage A-la-Mode. His distinctive style became so influential that similar satirical political illustrations are often referred to as "Hogarthian."

Notable Works and Their Significance

• The Marriage Contract (Classicism, Oil On Canvas): This painting showcases Hogarth's mastery of satire, critiquing the societal narratives of his time. [https://Wikioo.org/@@/8BWMB6-William-Hogarth-The-Marriage-Contract](https://Wikioo.org/@@/8BWMB6-William-Hogarth-The-Marriage-Contract)
• A Harlot's Progress (Satirical Art, Engraving): This series of paintings is a testament to Hogarth's ability to capture the human form with both grace and power, often incorporating sexually explicit content. [https://Wikioo.org/@/William-Hogarth](https://Wikioo.org/@/William-Hogarth)

Legacy and Influence

art gained immense popularity and was mass-produced through prints, making him the most significant English artist of his time. Charles Lamb, the essayist, famously remarked that Hogarth's images were like books to be read rather than merely looked at.

Museums and Collections

The British Museum, with its extensive collection of cultural art objects and antiquities, is a significant institution in the United Kingdom. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Museum](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Museum) Although not specifically focused on Hogarth's work, it represents the broader context of British art and culture.

Conclusion

William Hogarth's legacy as a satirical artist continues to influence the art world. His works, such as The Marriage Contract and A Harlot's Progress, remain significant not only for their artistic value but also for their sharp critique of societal narratives. Explore more of Hogarth's work on [https://Wikioo.org/@/William-Hogarth](https://Wikioo.org/@/William-Hogarth).