From Gin Lane to A Harlot’s Progress, we know that Hogarth was no stranger to London’s low life and he depicted the rogues, rebels and above all the ‘working women’ of London evocatively in his art. But what sort of world was he illustrating? What was the reality behind the engravings and paintings? Who were the women that ended up in London’s 18th Century sex trade and more importantly, how much about them did Hogarth know? During this immersive evening, you will find out!
You will be first welcomed by and taken on a storytelling journey through the galleries and rooms of Hogarth’s Chiswick Home by a real life 18th Century ‘Covent Garden Lady’. You will be introduced to the real people behind Hogarth’s infamous images, and hear the (often tragic, but sometimes comical!) stories behind the artworks.
After this you will have time to peruse the galleries at your own leisure and then join your speaker Maria in the lecture room for an engaging talk on the facts, figures and case studies behind the 18th Century sex trade, and how Hogarth so deftly illustrated these realities in his work. The talk will also look at how the 18th century trade relates to today- and how much has changed!
There will be time for questions of course, and a bar throughout the event at which you can buy Mother’s Ruin (as well as other beverages!)
- This event will cover themes that could be triggering to some, including historical sex work, sexual exploitation and abuse, rape and exploitation of children/minors
- Suitable for ages 16+
