Currently not on view
Southwark Fair,
1733–34
William Hogarth, 1697–1764; born and died London, England
x1988-29
The annual Southwark Fair was held in early September every year from 1462 to 1762, when it was closed, having been deemed a public nuisance. Fairs were an important part of London life, as venues for trade and later for entertainment, as depicted here. The migration of country laborers to the city is reflected in the presence of numerous rustic figures, such as the two ogling the drummer girl at the center of the chaotic scene. The banners advertise various plays, and a group of actors parades on a small stage that collapses onto the crowd. This episode, hinting at the dangers of uproarious behavior, is a classic example of the moralizing component of Hogarth’s narrative scenes.
Information
Title
Southwark Fair
Dates
1733–34
Maker
Medium
Etching and engraving
Dimensions
plate: 36.3 x 47.4 cm (14 5/16 x 18 11/16 in.)
sheet: 49 × 65.5 cm. (19 5/16 × 25 13/16 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. William H. Walker II
Object Number
x1988-29
Place Made
Europe, England, London
Place Depicted
Europe, England, London
Inscription
Inscribed and dated in plate, lower left: Invented Painted & Engrav'd by Wm Hogarth. 1733.
Reference Numbers
Paulson 131 (1965, 1989)
Type
Materials
Techniques
- John Trusler, The Works of William Hogarth (London: Jones, 1833)., pp. 105–114 (illus.)
- Ronald Paulson, Hogarth's Graphic Works (New Haven: Yale University Press, 1965)., no. 122
- Ronald Paulson, Hogarth’s Graphic Works (London: The Print Room, 1989)., no. 122
- "Acquisitions of the Art Museum 1988," Record of the Art Museum, Princeton University 48, no. 1 (1989): p. 35-59., p. 41 (illus.)
