William Hogarth

A Harlot's Progress, Plate III

£50

A Harlot's Progress is a series of six paintings and engravings by the English artist William Hogarth.  The modern moral series was first published in print form in 1732, just after an official crackdown on prostitution had begun, focused specifically on Covent Garden.  They show the story of a young woman, Moll Hackabout, who arrives in London from the country alone and and vulnerable and is tricked into prostitution by a devious brothel keeper. 

The third plate of the series depicts Moll Hackabout in a reduced state, having been discarded by the merchant, now living in a shabby room in Drury Lane.  Moll's marketability is reduced by disease and her servants are replaced with a woman who has lost part of her nose to syphilis.  John Gonson, an English judge noted for his enthusiasm for raiding brothels and passing harsh sentences, enters the room with armed bailiffs to arrest Moll.

This print is produced on St Cuthbert's Mill special acid free archival artboard.  The overall loose print size is 33cm x 24cm.  The framed print is presented in 20mm black wood archivist moulding, complete with rope hanger over hardboard back with a cream board mount.  The overall size is 43cm x 33cm.

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