Hudibras Triumphant (Twelve Large Illustrations for Samuel Butler's Hudibras, Plate 4)

Hudibras Triumphant (Twelve Large Illustrations for Samuel Butler's Hudibras, Plate 4) by William Hogarth is a crucial early example of the artist's illustrative work, created between 1725 and 1726. This dynamic piece, executed using the detailed print techniques of etching and engraving, represents the fourth plate in a twelve-part series commissioned to illustrate Samuel Butler’s famous 17th-century satirical poem, Hudibras. Hogarth utilized the complex layering afforded by etching for delicate line work, complemented by engraving to achieve the tonal depth necessary for the composition.

The scene vividly captures a pivotal moment from the mock-heroic narrative, depicting a burlesque military procession following a supposed victory. The composition is characteristic of 18th-century English satirical tradition, which Hogarth would later dominate. The plate is teeming with activity, showing numerous men and women observing or participating in the spectacle. At the center of the action, the inclusion of horses and the surrounding crowd amplifies the visual cacophony of the absurd triumph. Hogarth’s interpretation emphasizes the chaotic humor and mock-heroic nature of Butler’s protagonist, using exaggerated expressions and detailed staging to critique the societal figures and political hypocrisies of the English Commonwealth era.

Dating to 1725-1726, this specific impression represents the rare first state of three, showcasing the early precision of the finished print before later reworkings. The work is classified as a print within the permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Because this seminal work is now well into the public domain, enthusiasts worldwide continue to study this series of Hudibras prints, which solidified Hogarth's early reputation as a master of visual satire and narrative illustration.