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, English, 1697-1764
Title
The Denunciation
Datec.1729
MediumOil on canvas
Dimensions
50 x 66 cm
Signedlower right: W. Hogarth p.174[...]
Credit LinePresented, Mr F. Murray, 1911
Object numberNGI.618
Label TextIn this early satirical work by Hogarth, a pregnant woman, possibly a prostitute, stands before a corrupt magistrate and falsely declares that the father of her unborn child is the dour-looking man raising his arms and eyes theatrically upwards. She is being coached by her lover, the real father, who teaches her just as the girl sitting next to the magistrate trains her puppy. The caption on the engraving made after Hogarth's painting emphasises the fact that the magistrate was in cahoots with the couple for financial reward.