Cruelty in Perfection (The Four Stages of Cruelty) 1751

"Cruelty in Perfection" (1751) is an engraving by the English artist William Hogarth, renowned for his satirical social commentary. The artwork is the first in a series of six titled "The Four Stages of Cruelty," which explore the cycle of violence. This particular print depicts the murder of a young woman, highlighting the brutality of the crime. The detail, the dramatic lighting, and the focus on the victim's suffering create a powerful image that emphasizes the immorality of cruelty and violence. The print's stark message aimed to evoke a sense of social responsibility and moral reform amongst its viewers.