John Henley with five unknown figures 

This engraving by William Hogarth captures the scene of a public baptism, using simple lines incised into a metal plate to create this printed image. The act of engraving demands a lot of labor; the artist has to work in reverse, and every line must be carefully considered. Here, the crispness of the marks gives a real sense of the social satire that Hogarth was known for. It’s not just what is shown, but how it is shown that gives the work its meaning. The artist is engaging with a reproductive medium and makes a clear social comment through his subject matter: from the clergyman and the well-dressed figures, to the common folk looking on. Hogarth’s prints were made for a growing middle class, eager for accessible art that reflected their own lives, interests and values. Through the production process, they also acquired a sharp edge, commenting on the world around them.