Marriage A La Mode Collection
"Marriage a la Mode: A Satirical Take on Society's Vices and Consequences" Step into the world of 18th-century England through William Hogarth's iconic series
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"Marriage a la Mode: A Satirical Take on Society's Vices and Consequences" Step into the world of 18th-century England through William Hogarth's iconic series, "Marriage a la Mode. " In this collection of engravings, Hogarth masterfully captures the follies and vices that plagued society during his time. In "Marriage A-la-Mode: 4, " we witness the unraveling of an ill-fated marriage between two young aristocrats. The engraving by Simon Francois Ravenet portrays the couple in their opulent surroundings, surrounded by symbols of wealth and excess. However, beneath this facade lies a story filled with betrayal, greed, and societal expectations. As we delve deeper into the series, Bernard Baron's engravings reveal more about these characters' lives. Plate I introduces us to their arranged marriage ceremony – a union based on financial gain rather than love or compatibility. Plate II shows their lavish lifestyle as they indulge in extravagant parties and entertainments while neglecting each other emotionally. The consequences of such superficiality become evident in Plate III when infidelity enters the picture. Baron exposes Lady Squanderfield's affair with her conniving lawyer while her husband remains oblivious to her actions. This revelation sets off a chain reaction leading to tragedy. Plate IV takes us further down this dark path as both husband and wife engage in extramarital affairs without remorse or consideration for one another's feelings. Their disregard for fidelity ultimately leads them towards ruinous ends. Gerard Jean-Baptiste Scotin brings forth even more dramatic scenes in Plates V and VI as debts accumulate due to reckless spending habits. Financial ruin looms over them like an impending storm, highlighting how materialism can destroy relationships built on shallow foundations. Through biting satire and intricate details within each engraving, Hogarth critiques not only individual choices but also societal norms prevalent during his era – where marriages were often arranged for financial gain and appearances mattered more than genuine connection.