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Hogarth, Gin Lane
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Hogarth, Gin Lane
Hogarth, Gin Lane. A political print supporting a ministerial measure against the unlimited sale of gin (which later became the Gin Act). A scene of London life is depicted in which the pawnbrokers, gin cellar and distillery are now flourishing, and people's lives are being destroyed by their addiction to gin, with examples of infanticide, starvation, madness, decay and suicide. Date: 1751
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Media ID 32089189
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1750s 1751 Cellar Coffin Decay Destroyed Distillery Flourishing Hogarth Lane Legislation Madness Measure Ministerial Pawn Pawnbrokers Sale Starvation Suicide Unlimited Addiction Infanticide
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This powerful and haunting image by Hogarth, titled Gin Lane, serves as a stark reminder of the devastating effects of addiction and societal decay. Painted in 1751 to support a ministerial measure against the unlimited sale of gin, this political print captures a scene of London life filled with despair and destruction.
In the foreground, we see a pawnbroker's sign looming ominously over a child's coffin, symbolizing the tragic consequences of poverty and desperation. The gin cellar and distillery in the background are depicted as flourishing establishments, profiting off people's addiction to alcohol.
The figures in the print are emaciated, mad with drink, or driven to acts of infanticide and suicide. It is a chilling portrayal of how lives can be destroyed by substance abuse and societal neglect.
Hogarth's Gin Lane stands as a timeless commentary on human nature and society's failings. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked vice and exploitation. This historical artwork continues to resonate today as we grapple with issues surrounding addiction, mental health, and social inequality.
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