William Hogarth: The Four Stages of Cruelty: Cruelty in Perfection 1 February 1751. Etching and engraving.

Dimensions:
18.5" x 22" x 1"
Artwork Dimensions:
12.625" x 16"

Nero has embarked on a life of highway robbery. He is seen here being apprehended after committing a murder in the dead of night.

As with Tom Idle in Industry and Idleness, Hogarth underlines that the reality of being a highwayman is far from the glamorous, romantic existence presented by popular heroes such as Captain Macheath in The Beggar's Opera.

Indeed, Nero's grotesque appearance conveys the inherent viciousness of his character and brutalizing way of life. His victim, Ann Gill, his lover and partner-in-crime, lies prostrate on the floor, her throat slit. Her swollen stomach makes it clear that she was pregnant.


GrpC 9.26


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Overall condition is consistent with age and use.
*silvered frame is distressed and original to 1960s era reframe.
*please see photos.

Origin:
United Kingdom

Creator:
Artist: William Hogarth

Materials & Techniques:
Engraving, Etching

Details:
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used
Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Art Subjects: Architecture, Cityscape, Portrait
Frame Type: Framed

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Overall condition is consistent with age and use.
*silvered frame is distressed and original to 1960s era reframe.
*please see photos.