Antique Hogarth prints Industrious and idle 'prentice - sold separately

These antique Hogarth prints come from the famous 1747 series 'Industry and Idleness', a masterclass in 18th-century moral satire by the legendary British artist William Hogarth. The series follows the divergent paths of two apprentices: Francis Goodchild, who rises to become Lord Mayor of London through diligence, and Tom Idle, whose laziness leads him to a tragic end at Tyburn.

We have six different scenes from this iconic narrative available, as shown in the images. Each print is a window into the bustling, gritty reality of Georgian London, captured with Hogarth’s characteristic wit and incredible attention to detail. From the crowded looms of the weaving shop to the dramatic courtroom scenes, these engravings are both historical documents and powerful works of art.

The prints are presented in hardy, period-style frames that complement their antique character. They show a wonderful, authentic patina with the subtle foxing and tonal shifts expected of genuine 18th or 19th-century paper, which only enhances their scholarly and decorative appeal.