Original antique copper engravings by William Hogarth
Published by Craddock and Baldwin, 1820
Set of two
Image sizes: 31 x 38cm
William Hogarth portrays the inhabitants of Beer Street as happy and healthy, nourished by the native English ale, and those who live in Gin Lane as destroyed by their addiction to the foreign spirit of gin.
Gin Lane shows shocking scenes of infanticide, starvation, madness, decay and suicide, while Beer Street depicts industry, health, bonhomie and thriving commerce. The ruinous effect of gin on the population brought about the first alcohol licence.
