FRANCE BY WILLIAM HOGARTH (1697-1764)

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Characteristics

France
By William Hogarth (1697–1764)

A fine eighteenth-century engraving by the celebrated English artist and satirist William Hogarth, published in 1756 as Plate I from The Invasion. Executed at a time of heightened tension between Britain and France during the Seven Years' War, the print forms part of Hogarth’s celebrated pair of patriotic satires contrasting French and British society.

Entitled France, the composition presents a lively and richly detailed scene on the French coast, where soldiers, clergy and civilians gather amid preparations for a proposed invasion of England. Hogarth's sharp wit and observational skill are evident throughout, using humour, symbolism and caricature to comment on contemporary politics, military ambition and national identity. The engraving remains one of the artist’s most engaging and historically significant political works.

Renowned for his ability to combine social commentary with exceptional draughtsmanship, Hogarth is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in British art, and his engravings continue to be highly collected for both their artistic merit and historical interest.

The print is attractively presented within a gilt frame and complementary mount, enhancing its period character and making it an impressive decorative piece.

Technical Information

Date: 18th Century
Framed: 63 x 68 x 3.5 cm.