William Hogarth (1697-1764) - Burning the Rumps at Temple Bar

A masterpiece of British satire, the famous street riot by William Hogarth from the Hudibras series. Immerse yourself in the witty, chaotic world of 18th-century London with this magnificent aquatint and engraving by the legendary master of pictorial satire, William Hogarth (1697-1764). This particular work, entitled "The Burning of the Rumps at Temple Bar" (Plate 11 of the famous Hudibras series), illustrates Samuel Butler's pseudo-heroic poem that criticizes the political hypocrisy of the Puritan party during the English Civil War. The print masterfully captures a tumultuous crowd gathered near Temple Bar, the historic western boundary of the City of London. The crowd is depicted hanging and burning effigies of the hated Rump Parliament members, while the protesters carry a masked Hudibras dummy on a pole amid blazing fires and butcher’s scenes. The lower margin presents a very sharp typographic title, flanked by long satirical verses in old English types. Presented within a classic cream-colored passe-partout with an elegant gold line and a customized frame, this engraving offers great visual presence and deep historical significance. An ideal addition for specialized print rooms, law offices, or traditional high-end libraries. Technical and material characteristics: Artistic quality: High. The plate features fine, dense hatching, rich ink contrast, and highly expressive figures’ faces, showcasing Hogarth’s unparalleled narrative skill. Condition: Excellent vintage condition. The paper shows a beautiful, even patina of age. An iconic piece in the history of European printmaking from one of Britain’s historically most collected artists. Condition: Excellent; Material: Thick archival paper (laid paper). Technique: Engraving in copper with aquaforte and etching. Signed in the plate on the lower right margin by the artist (“William Hogarth inv. et sculp.”). Print size: 63.5 cm x 48 cm. The lot will be carefully packed and shipped with contracted couriers. For this lot, shipping outside the European Community is not offered.