The Company of Undertakers

William Hogarth - engraver

William Hogarth - engraver - The Company of Undertakers
In the 18th century, the distinction between actual physicians and quacks or charlatans was somewhat undefined. In the present print, simultaneously styled as both a coat of arms and a death notice, Hogarth shows the inexorable results of the illusion of choice - regardless to whose care the patient submitted himself, his lot remained his demise at the hands of these „undertakers“ in disguise.
date:
measurements: height 270 mm
width 190 mm
material: paper
technique: etching and engraving
inscription:
inventory number: R 149481
gallery collection: Collection of Prints and Drawings