Five Framed Prints after William Hogarth | Industry and Idleness

Offered as a set or individually. Five framed prints after William Hogarth from Industry and Idleness, his twelve-part moral series following the diverging lives of two London apprentices. Through richly detailed scenes of churchgoing, domestic hardship, civic celebrations and courtroom drama, Hogarth contrasts Francis Goodchild’s rise to public office with Tom Idle’s descent into crime.

This collection includes plates 2, 7, 8, 10 and 12, presented in coordinating black frames with decorative gold detailing. Their intricate architectural settings, expressive figures and printed captions reward a closer look, making them an engaging grouping for a library, study or gallery wall.

Plate 2: The Industrious ’Prentice Performing the Duty of a Christian

Francis Goodchild attends church beside his master’s daughter, sharing a hymn book as they sing. His attentive participation establishes the piety and discipline central to his character. The scene also introduces the young woman he will later marry, connecting his private conduct with his future prosperity.

Plate 7: The Idle ’Prentice Return’d from Sea, & in a Garret with a Common Prostitute

Returned from sea, Tom Idle occupies a dilapidated attic with a woman examining stolen jewelry. Pistols and other stolen possessions suggest his involvement in robbery. Startled by a cat falling down the chimney, he reaches for a weapon, revealing the fear and insecurity accompanying his criminal life.

Plate 8: The Industrious ’Prentice Grown Rich, & Sheriff of London

Now a wealthy man and Sheriff of London, Goodchild sits with his wife at a grand civic banquet. The elaborate setting marks his ascent from apprentice to respected public figure. In the foreground, diners enthusiastically overindulge, adding Hogarth’s characteristic satire to this scene of success.

Plate 10: The Industrious ’Prentice Alderman of London, the Idle One Brought Before Him & Impeach’d by His Accomplice

The former apprentices meet again under very different circumstances. Goodchild, now an alderman acting as a magistrate, hears accusations against Idle as his accomplice gives evidence. Idle pleads before his former colleague, while Goodchild’s troubled expression lends poignancy to this confrontation between their diverging lives.

Plate 12: The Industrious ’Prentice Lord-Mayor of London

The series concludes with Goodchild riding in a ceremonial carriage as Lord Mayor of London. Crowds fill the streets around the procession, celebrating his achievement while supplying a lively spectacle of disorder and distraction. His public triumph completes the contrast with Idle’s execution in the preceding plate.

Measurement: 14"W x 10.5" H including frame.

Condition: Wear to the frames includes scuffing, chips and areas of loss to the decorative gold moulding, as shown in the photographs. Visible toning and spotting to the paper, with discoloration around some margins. Please review the photographs closely for individual condition details.

Sourced in Cotswolds, England

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