The Industrious 'Prentice a Favorite, and Entrusted by his Master: Industry and Idleness, plate 4

The Industrious 'Prentice a Favorite, and Entrusted by his Master: Industry and Idleness, plate 4 is a print by William Hogarth, executed in 1747. This crucial work is the fourth plate in the artist's famous didactic series, Industry and Idleness, which contrasts the morality and subsequent fortunes of two apprentices: the diligent Francis Goodchild and the lazy Tom Idle. The piece is classified as a print, utilizing the precise combined techniques of etching and engraving, and represents the first state of two known versions.

Hogarth employs detailed narrative scenes common in 18th-century English art to deliver powerful moral lessons, often aimed at guiding the conduct of the working classes. In this composition, the industrious apprentice, Goodchild, is rewarded by his master, showcasing his success through diligence and integrity. The composition shows various men and women actively engaged in commerce and observation, underscoring the values of enterprise and responsible working practices. The central focus is the master entrusting his favorite with greater responsibilities, a clear visual representation of meritocracy within the Georgian economic system. Subtle details within the environment, including figures and animals, further enhance the narrative structure, setting a clear moral example for the viewer.

As a highly successful series of moral prints, Industry and Idleness was widely circulated upon its publication, influencing public behavior and artistic trends throughout the period. Hogarth's powerful visual sermons remain central to understanding Georgian social critique. This particular print resides in the respected collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Because of its age and profound cultural significance, this celebrated work of art is frequently available through public domain resources, ensuring continued scholarly access to Hogarth's influential narrative.