William Hogarth

Elizabeth Kathleen Mitchell

In early modern England, public executions were as popular as pleasure gardens, fairs, and theater extravaganzas. The grisly entertainments were staged northwest of London at the three-sided gallows known as Tyburn. William Hogarth (1697-1764) fleshed out numerous prints with references to criminal culture and the dramatic rituals that accompanied executions. Given his interest in manners and urban life, it is no surprise that he peppered his prints with references to crime, execution and intricate plot lines. This catalogue includes three essays, 42 catalogue entries, index and bibliography. (Harvard University Art Museums)

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