The Sleeping Congregation

The Sleeping Congregation by William Hogarth English, 1697-1764, is a notable satirical print created in 1736. Executed using the complementary techniques of etching and engraving, the image is rendered in black on ivory wove paper. Hogarth utilized these popular printmaking methods to ensure widespread circulation of his social commentary throughout England, targeting a broad audience beyond the traditional fine art collector.

The subject is a humorous yet pointed critique of spiritual apathy and boredom within 18th-century religious services. The scene portrays a drowsy minister delivering a sermon from the pulpit, while the members of the congregation slump asleep in the pews or engage in inappropriate distractions. The details are meticulous, characteristic of Hogarth’s style; a centrally placed clerk or sexton is often depicted asleep in the foreground, his posture mirroring the general exhaustion of the attendees, underscoring the universal lack of engagement.

As a prolific master of the print medium, Hogarth ensured that works like this were accessible to the public, solidifying his reputation as the preeminent visual satirist of the age. This specific example, classified formally as a print, showcases the artist’s mastery of crisp line work achieved through his combination of etching and engraving techniques. The work stands as an essential document of moral and social observation from 18th-century England. The original piece resides within the permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. Due to its historical significance, high-quality reproductions of this artwork are often available in the public domain for study and appreciation.