The Times, pl. 2

Date1762

MediumEtching with line engraving

DimensionsOverall: 10 1/2 × 15in. (26.7 × 38.1cm) Other (Plate): 9 1/4 × 11 3/4in. (23.5 × 29.8cm)

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1960-147

DescriptionLower margin reads: "The Times / If we're too Scrupulously just,/ What profit's in a place of trust?/ The common practice of the great./ Is to secure a snug retreat;/ So Pug began to turn his brain/ (Like other folks in place) on gain./Gay. / Pub. according to y.e Act Sep. 27. 1762./ Pl. 2"
Label TextThis print is a rebuttal to William Hogarth's "The Times plate 1" which was in support of Lord Bute. A busy city square is shown. The figure of Hogarth is seen in a pillory with his palette hanging round his neck. He is being chided for his subservience to Lord Bute. A large group has gathered round to mock him. At a window above this scene are 3 aldermen looking with complacency at the punishment being experienced by Hogarth. Symbols of many of Hogarth’s satirical drawings can be seen in the shop signs and in some of the figures of the drawings. Enclosed is another cartoon with the same title drawn by Hogarth. It is easy to see the resemblance and to see where the idea for redrawing with Hogarth the main target might have come.