The Times, Plate 1

The Times, Plate 1, by William Hogarth, is a powerful example of 18th-century graphic satire, executed in 1762. This historical print, created through the complex process of etching and engraving, represents the third and final state of Hogarth's politically charged composition. The work was produced during the contentious period of the Seven Years’ War and the early reign of King George III, a time marked by deep division between political factions and national uncertainty.

Hogarth utilizes the dramatic setting of a catastrophic fire engulfing a London cityscape to deliver his scathing political critique. The scene shows the chaotic destruction of city buildings, emphasizing the imminent threat posed to the capital. Groups of men, representing various political and social strata, are shown observing the escalating crisis. The core of Hogarth’s satire focuses on the failure of the government to address national challenges, suggesting that internal political squabbles and partisanship—symbolized by the inaction of figures near the blaze—are more dangerous than the literal fire threatening the nation.

This masterwork of satirical prints remains a vital visual document of Georgian-era politics and urban life in London. Hogarth's powerful visual metaphor condemns those in power who prioritized their disputes over unified governance. Today, this key piece, The Times, Plate 1, is housed in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Prints of this influential work are frequently made available through public domain initiatives, ensuring its continued study by historians and art enthusiasts.