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A Harlot's Progress, Plate 5,
1732
William Hogarth, 1697–1764; born and died London, England
x1988-25
More Context
Prior to the AIDS epidemic, syphilis was the most feared of all sexually transmitted diseases. Its prevalence in eighteenth century London is evoked by Hogarth in his series<em> A Harlot’s Progress</em>, which chronicles the downfall and death of young Moll Hackabout.In plate 5, Moll has returned from prison and sits swaddled in blankets as she succumbs to the disease. Two doctors argue over the proper treatment for her, while various popular remedies are strewn on the floor. On a side table, several of her teeth, loosened as a result of treatment with mercury, rest on a piece of paper inscribed with the name of a celebrated physician.
Information
Title
A Harlot's Progress, Plate 5
Dates
1732
Maker
Medium
Etching and engraving
Dimensions
plate: 32.3 x 39.3 cm (12 11/16 x 15 1/2 in.)
sheet: 49 × 65.5 cm. (19 5/16 × 25 13/16 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. William H. Walker II
Object Number
x1988-25
Inscription
Inscribed in plate, lower left: Plate 5
Inscribed in plate, lower right: Wm Hogarth inv't pinxt et sculpt
Reference Numbers
Paulson 125
Type
Subject
