The prison

- 62.0 x 75.0 cm
A Glimpse into The Prison
In William Hogarth’s 1735 painting, The prison, the viewer is drawn into an intimate and lively room where social interaction takes center stage. The composition captures a group of individuals gathered together, some seated around a dining table while others stand or engage in conversation with one another. A sense of human connection permeates the scene, as the figures navigate their shared space in a way that suggests a moment of communal life.
The setting is detailed with specific objects that ground the social gathering. Near the center of the room, a chair is positioned prominently, and towards the left side, a dining table holds a visible cup, hinting at a shared meal or drink among the participants. Through this arrangement of people and objects, the artwork presents a snapshot of a group interacting within an enclosed, domestic atmosphere.
Questions & Answers
When was "The prison" made?
"The prison" dates from 1735. The date places the work within William Hogarth's career and its era.
What emotion does the 18th Century Rococo work "The prison" convey?
Within the 18th Century Rococo movement, "The prison" is recorded with a reflective tone.
What other names is William Hogarth known by?
William Hogarth appears under the alternate names Hogarth, Uilʹi︠a︡m Khogart, Guglielmo Hogarth, Khogart, William Horarth.
William Hogarth (1697 – 1764)
Explore the satirical world of William Hogarth (1697-1764), pioneering English painter & engraver. Discover *A Harlot's Progress* & insightful social commentary.
About this artwork
- Title: The prison
- Artist: William Hogarth
- Year: 1735
- Original dimensions: 62.0 x 75.0 cm
- Format: Landscape
- Copyright status: Public domain
- Medium: Oil
- Inventory number: SM P46
- Corpus context: eighteenth-century societal norms , satirical social critique
- Color palette: Earthy
Quick Facts
- Notable elements: Social satire, scene
- Artist: William Hogarth
- Artistic style: British painting
- Dimensions: 62 x 75 cm
- Location: Private Collection
- Influences:
- Satire
- Moral tales