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The Man with the Load of Mischief, 18th century, (1943). Creator: William Hogarth
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The Man with the Load of Mischief, 18th century, (1943). Creator: William Hogarth
The Man with the Load of Mischief, 18th century, (1943). A man with a chain and padlock round his neck, carrying a " load of mischief" : a woman holding a glass of gin rides on his back, while a monkey pokes him in the ear. In the background is a pawnbrokers shop, a reference to belongings being pawned to buy alcohol. A misogynistic depiction which portrays the wife as a literal burden to the husband. ( Trouble and Strife is cockney rhyming slang for wife ). Inn sign attributed to William Hogarth which reputedly came from an inn called " The Mischief", in Oxford Street. From " English Inns", by Thomas Burke. [Collins, London, 1943]
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Media ID 19777340
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Alcohol Britain In Pictures Burke Chain Collins Drinking Hogarth Inn Sign Mammal Mischief Misogynist Misogyny Monkey Monkies Pawn Shop Pawnbroker Pawnshop Primate Sexism Sexist Social History Sydney Thomas Sydney Thomas Burke Thomas Burke Trouble W Hogarth William Collins William Collins And Sons William Hogarth Metaphor Strife
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The Man with the Load of Mischief
EDITORS COMMENTS
by William Hogarth is a captivating 18th-century print that offers a glimpse into the social dynamics and vices of its time. In this intriguing artwork, we witness a man burdened with both physical and metaphorical weight. A chain and padlock encircle his neck, symbolizing the shackles of his mischievous actions. Carrying the load on his back is a woman holding a glass of gin, representing the destructive influence of alcohol in society. Meanwhile, an impish monkey playfully pokes him in the ear, perhaps alluding to temptation or mischief itself. The background reveals a pawnbroker's shop, hinting at financial struggles resulting from excessive drinking habits. This element serves as a reminder that many individuals resorted to pawning their belongings to sustain their addiction. While this artwork may be seen as misogynistic due to its portrayal of women as burdensome figures within marriage, it also sheds light on societal issues prevalent during that era. The inn sign attributed to Hogarth adds another layer of historical significance by originating from "The Mischief" an actual establishment located in Oxford Street. Through vivid colors and intricate details, Hogarth masterfully captures not only individual characters but also broader themes such as sexism and societal consequences. "The Man with the Load of Mischief" remains an enduring piece that invites contemplation about human nature and our capacity for self-destruction throughout history.
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