Biographical Anecdotes of William Hogarth, With a Catalogue of His Works

A spirited portrait of one of England’s most irreverent artists unfolds through a handful of vivid anecdotes, sketches of his social circle, and the occasional witty aside. The writer set out to honor a patron’s memory, but as friends supplied fresh details, the modest pamphlet swelled into a richer, three‑shilling volume. Early chapters capture Hogarth’s early commissions, his playful rivalry with contemporaries, and the colorful personalities that surrounded his workshop.

Beyond the stories, the book offers a meticulously ordered catalogue of Hogarth’s prints, paintings, and engravings, each accompanied by concise remarks that illuminate his evolving style. Interwoven with a lively defense against early critics, the narrative reveals the artist’s resilience and the lively debates of his day. Listeners will be treated to a charming blend of biography, art history, and the occasional heated footnote, all presented in a tone that feels both scholarly and conversational.