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A Rakes Progress, 1735; plate V of VIII. Artist: William Hogarth
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A Rakes Progress, 1735; plate V of VIII. Artist: William Hogarth
A Rakes Progress, 1735; plate V of VIII. Tom Rakewell marries an old but rich woman, in order to retrieve his fortune. Meanwhile, in the background, Sarah Young with her mother and baby attempt to enter the church, whilst a couple of dogs in the foreground mimic the bride and groom. Plate V in a set of eight plates
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Media ID 15166924
© London Metropolitan Archives (City of London) / Heritage-Images
Bride Bridegroom Clergyman Cleric Greed Groom Guildhall Library Art Gallery Hogarth Immoral Immorality Rake Sarah Young Tom Rakewell W Hogarth Wealth Wealthy William Hogarth William Hogarth Hogarth William W Hogarth
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a pivotal moment in William Hogarth's iconic series, "A Rake's Progress". Plate V of VIII depicts the ill-fated marriage of Tom Rakewell to an elderly but wealthy woman. As the couple stands at the altar inside a grand church, their union symbolizes greed and immorality. Intriguingly, while Tom seeks to secure his fortune through this loveless match, another scene unfolds in the background. Sarah Young, accompanied by her mother and baby, attempts to enter the same church. This stark contrast highlights the consequences of pursuing wealth at any cost versus genuine love and family values. Adding a touch of satire to this composition are two mischievous dogs in the foreground who mimic the bride and groom. Their presence serves as a reminder that material possessions can never replace true happiness or moral integrity. Hogarth's engraving skillfully portrays 18th-century society's obsession with wealth and status while critiquing its disregard for religious principles. The monochrome palette adds depth to each intricate detail within this indoor setting, emphasizing both opulence and decay simultaneously. As we gaze upon this image from Guildhall Library Art Gallery’s collection, we are reminded of Hogarth’s masterful storytelling abilities through art. His work continues to resonate today as it prompts us to reflect on our own values amidst societal pressures for material success.
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