Plate one, from A Harlot's Progress

"Plate one, from A Harlot's Progress" is the initiating image of William Hogarth English, 1697-1764’s groundbreaking six-part moral series, first published in 1732. This pivotal work, executed as an exacting engraving in black on ivory laid paper, marked a significant development in the history of English prints and visual narrative. Hogarth championed the 'modern moral subject' genre, utilizing the accessibility of printmaking to deliver a pointed critique of the social hypocrisy and moral pitfalls rampant in 18th-century London society. The widespread distribution of these etchings and engravings allowed for unprecedented public engagement with the artist's didactic commentaries.

The A Harlot’s Progress series fundamentally transformed visual storytelling in England. This opening plate depicts the naive protagonist, Moll Hackabout, shortly after her arrival in the capital, unaware of the moral dangers awaiting her. Hogarth’s detailed composition focuses on Moll’s recruitment by an older procuress near the infamous Bell Inn courtyard, using symbolic visual cues to establish the corrupt environment. The skillful manipulation of light and shadow, inherent to the engraving medium, emphasizes the stark transition from vulnerability to exploitation.

As a highly successful commercial venture, the series spurred many unauthorized copies; Hogarth was instrumental in advocating for legal protection for artists, contributing to early copyright law in England. Classified as a foundational print of the Georgian era, this impression is maintained within the permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago, offering researchers and the public access to this pivotal moment in the history of English visual satire. Though protected at the time, many such foundational artistic works today reside in the public domain.