120 William Hogarth (1697–1764), engraved by Thomas Cook (c. 1744–1818) – South Sea Scheme and The Lottery – Etching & Copperplate Engraving (1806)

This superb large-format satire combines two iconic images by William Hogarth: The South Sea Scheme and The Lottery, both exposing the madness and moral corruption surrounding early 18th-century financial speculation. The central image mocks the infamous South Sea Bubble of 1720, where investors were drawn into a frenzy of stock-buying and ultimately financial ruin. Hogarth’s allegorical figures, grotesque characters, and chaotic energy illustrate the destructive consequences of greed and gullibility.

The engraving originates from The Whole Works of the Celebrated William Hogarth, as Originally Published, issued in London between 1791 and 1802, and printed in 1806 by Thomas Davison for John Stockdale, John Walker, and G. Robinson. The plate was executed by Thomas Cook, Hogarth’s most well-known reproductive engraver, who carefully preserved the sharpness and satirical precision of the original work.

Artist: 

William Hogarth & Thomas Cook

Dimensions:

63 cm x 45 cm

Medium: 

Etching & Copperplate Engraving

Date: 

1806

Condition Report:

This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report