Marriage A-la-Mode, plate IV (reverse copy) 1750 - 1850

William Hogarth made this reverse copy of plate IV from his series *Marriage A-la-Mode* as an etching. This is a biting critique of the aristocracy in 18th century England. Here, the artist shows the decadence, idleness, and moral bankruptcy of the upper classes. The scene depicts a couple in their lavishly decorated home surrounded by signs of wealth and leisure, yet they are utterly disengaged from one another. Hogarth was deeply concerned with the social issues of his time and his art often served as a form of social commentary. His series was originally intended to be purchased and enjoyed by the rising middle classes, who would have seen themselves as morally superior to the aristocracy. By studying the social and economic conditions of 18th century England, we can gain a deeper understanding of the artwork's meaning and significance. Historians rely on sources such as period documents, literature, and art criticism to interpret art within its original context.