The New Metamorphosis, Plate 3: The Bandits Abduct Camilla 1723 - 1724

William Hogarth created this print, "The New Metamorphosis, Plate 3: The Bandits Abduct Camilla," using etching, and engraving techniques, sometime in the 18th century. Hogarth was a Londoner, and his prints reflect the social concerns of his time. Here, we see an abduction scene. Camilla is being carried away by bandits, but this is more than just a dramatic moment. Look closely; Hogarth uses visual cues to critique the wealthy elite. The bandits on horseback, the architectural backdrop, and even the distressed figures all speak to a society grappling with issues of class and morality. Hogarth’s prints were often sold as sets, telling a story and inviting viewers to reflect on the state of their world. This print can be viewed in light of its English context and the wider visual culture of that time, but it’s important to look at sources beyond the image itself. We can look at literature, social histories, and even other artworks to better understand what Hogarth was trying to say and its significance to its viewers.