Credulity, Superstition and Fanaticism by William Hogarth, 1697-1764

William Hogarth, 1697-1764
Scroll down for information.
Click here to return to the list.

Credulity, Superstition and Fanaticism

Original etching with engraving in black ink. 1762. With the 'Design'd and Engrav'd by Wm Hogarth'. Very fine lifetime or possibly Jane Hogarth impression - the paper and sharpness of impression suggest lifetime. With the title and publication details uncorrected and on
the separate foot plate, as issued.
Ref: Paulson - Hogarth's Graphic Works no 210 (2)

Extremely fine crisp impression. On pale cream laid 18th century paper. Generally excellent condition; some paper soiling evident on the platemark and on the reverse otherwise excellent with no tears. Sheet: 18 7/8 x 14 7/8ins. Plate overall; 17 1/4 x 14ins (435x350mm).

This item is sold.
Click here to enquire about this item.

Hogarth reworked this composition from an earlier unpublished plate 'Enthusiasm Delineated'. A satire and social comment on the misuse of religion it pokes fun at the 'facades' that he felt that many people used for presence in church and the superstition and debauchery that lay beneath that surface appearance. The gauge of 'audience reaction' on the right is a marvellous concept, with readings from 'luke warm' to 'extacy'(sic) and 'lust'.

See also the notes on Hogarth in 'The Laughing Audience'.