William Hogarth
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Full Name and Common Aliases

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William Hogarth was born on November 10, 1697, in Bartholomew Close, Smithfield, London, England. He is commonly referred to as William Hogarth, although some sources also list his name as William Hogarth Sr.

Birth and Death Dates

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November 10, 1697 - October 25, 1764

Nationality and Profession(s)

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English Artist, Printmaker, Satirist, and Social Commentator

William Hogarth was a prominent English artist, printmaker, satirist, and social commentator. He is widely regarded as one of the leading figures in the development of Western art and culture.

Early Life and Background

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Hogarth's early life was marked by poverty and hardship. His father, also named William Hogarth, was a poor schoolteacher who struggled to provide for his family. Despite these challenges, young William demonstrated an early aptitude for drawing and was apprenticed to the engraver Sir Samuel Cooper at the age of 15.

Major Accomplishments

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Hogarth's artistic career spanned over four decades and included numerous notable works in various mediums, including painting, etching, and mezzotint. He is credited with establishing the "English School" of art, which focused on depicting everyday life and social issues through satire.

Some of his most significant accomplishments include:

Developing a unique style that blended realism with moral commentary
Creating influential works such as _Marriage à-la-mode_ (1743-1745) and _Industry and Idleness_ (1747)
Pioneering the use of mezzotint, a technique that allowed for greater detail and texture in prints

Notable Works or Actions

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Hogarth's notable works include:

Marriage à-la-mode (1743-1745): A satirical series of paintings depicting a fictional aristocratic family's decline into moral decay
Industry and Idleness (1747): An etched series illustrating the consequences of idleness and the rewards of hard work
Southwark Fair (1734-1738): A painting capturing the vibrant atmosphere of a London fair

Impact and Legacy

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William Hogarth's impact on art, culture, and society cannot be overstated. He:

Established a new standard for artistic excellence in England
Influenced generations of artists, including Thomas Gainsborough and John Constable
Contributed to the development of British satire and social commentary

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

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William Hogarth is widely quoted and remembered for his:

Moral commentary: His works continue to offer insights into 18th-century English society, exploring themes such as morality, class, and the consequences of one's actions.
* Artistic innovation: Hogarth's techniques and style paved the way for future generations of artists and helped shape the development of Western art.

As a masterful artist, printmaker, and social commentator, William Hogarth left an indelible mark on art history. His works continue to captivate audiences with their wit, satire, and timeless commentary on human nature.