A Harlot's Progress, Plate V

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 fifth plate of the series depicts Moll Hackabout in a squalid room, wrapped in a sheet and dying from venereal disease, while two doctors argue over her treatment.  Her serving-woman calls for attention and tries to stop another woman rifling through and looting Moll's trunk.  This apartment is without any signs of Moll's personality and her usual trappings.  All her money has been spent on trying to find a cure for her disease.

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.