The Roast Beef of Old England 1748 - 1749

"The Roast Beef of Old England" is an engraving by renowned British artist William Hogarth from 1748-49. This satirical print depicts a group of men in a London street. The focal point is a group of men arguing over a roast of beef, while a man in a robe stands in the background, likely symbolizing the Catholic Church. The image is packed with symbolism, typical of Hogarth's work, with the men representing different segments of 18th-century British society. This engraving, part of a series of political cartoons by Hogarth, critiques social and religious issues of the time. The print is a testament to Hogarth's powerful and satirical approach to depicting the complexities of 18th-century English life.