William Hogarth, The Bruiser Satirical Churchill Bear Illustration, 1763, Engraving

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William hogarth, the bruiser – satirical churchill bear engraving, 1763 : a powerful and highly sought-after satirical engraving by william … Read more William hogarth, the bruiser – satirical churchill bear engraving, 1763 : a powerful and highly sought-after satirical engraving by william hogarth, titled the bruiser, c. Churchill (once the revd.) in the character of a russian hercules, published in london in august 1763. This iconic print represents one of hogarth’s most personal and biting visual responses, created during a public feud with the poet and clergyman charles churchill. Note: this engraving is an original antique and not a reproduction. It is offered unframed. Frame shown for presentation purposes only. The composition is dominated by the grotesque figure of a bear seated in a chair, clad in clerical bands and raising a foaming tankard. This “russian hercules” caricature is a direct mockery of churchill, portraying him as crude, drunken, and intellectually dishonest. The club beside him, inscribed with the word “lyes,” reinforces hogarth’s accusation of falsehood and slander in churchill’s writings. To the left sits hogarth’s beloved pug, trump, a recurring symbol of loyalty and artistic integrity. In a sharply humorous gesture, the dog urinates upon churchill’s epistle to william hogarth, the very poem that sparked this visual retaliation. The foreground palette—significantly left blank in this impression—serves as a symbolic statement, suggesting hogarth’s claim that his artistic inspiration had been disrupted by the attack. This example is particularly desirable as it appears to be an **early state (likely state i–iii)** of the engraving. The absence of the later-added vignette on the palette confirms its early issue, printed during hogarth’s lifetime. Early states are notably scarcer and more prized by collectors than later restrikes or 19th-century editions. Executed with hogarth’s masterful combination of etching and engraving, the print displays rich tonal contrasts, expressive line work, and exceptional narrative detail. It stands as a quintessential example of 18th-century british satire, blending personal vendetta with broader commentary on politics, morality, and public discourse. A striking and historically charged work, highly appealing to collectors of hogarth, caricature, and political satire. Condition report: good impression with strong, dark lines and clear detail. Light overall age toning consistent with 18th-century paper. Margins present with minor handling wear. No major losses observed. Plate mark visible. Overall in very good collectible condition. Framing tips: this print benefits from a classic presentation: a dark walnut or ebonized frame with a wide ivory or warm off-white mat to emphasize contrast and depth. Museum glass is recommended to protect the fine line work and prevent uv fading. Works particularly well in a study or library setting. Technique: etching and engraving maker: william hogarth, england, 1763 See less