Hogarth’s House in Chiswick is a historical country home that holds significant importance in British culture. The house belonged to William Hogarth, a renowned artist and political satirist whose work has influenced many paintings and cartoons in modern times. Although many may not be familiar with the man, his hand is still etched into the British imagination, making a visit to Hogarth’s House a must for history enthusiasts.
London is a city filled with fascinating history and connections to historical figures, and William Hogarth is no exception. Hogarth’s House offers visitors a chance to delve into the life and works of the man, providing a unique insight into his art and political satire. Whether you’re an art lover or history enthusiast, a visit to Hogarth’s House is a worthwhile experience.
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Key Takeaways
- Hogarth’s House is a historical country home that belonged to William Hogarth, a renowned artist and political satirist whose work has influenced many paintings and cartoons in modern times.
- The house holds significant importance in British culture, and a visit to Hogarth’s House is a must for history enthusiasts.
- The house offers visitors a chance to delve into the life and works of William Hogarth, providing a unique insight into his art and political satire.
Why Visit Hogarth House?
Hogarth House is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the life and work of William Hogarth. Hogarth was a renowned political satirist and artist whose works were popular in his time and continue to influence satirists today. At Hogarth House, visitors can explore the artist’s former home, which has been restored to its 18th-century appearance, and view a collection of his works. With its rich history and unique collection, Hogarth House offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and art of this influential figure.
The History of Hogarth House
The First Tenants
Hogarth House, located in Chiswick, was built in 1717 and was initially used as a summer house by Reverend George Andreas Ruperti, a pastor from Westminster. Ruperti was an interesting figure who helped German refugees fleeing the Rhineland after a famine wiped out local crops and people. He assisted many of these refugees in making it to America, where they built new lives. Ruperti’s widow held onto the house until she sold it to the Hogarths in 1749.
Hogarth’s House
William Hogarth, a painter, satirist, and social critic, used the house as his country home and extended the property by adding an extension round the back and turning a spare room above the coach house into a studio. Hogarth spent a lot of time in the house, and it became increasingly important to him and his family. He even buried his pets at the bottom of the garden, and he himself is buried in the nearby cemetery of St. Nicholas Church.
Changing Hands Again
After Hogarth’s death, the property stayed in family hands until 1808 when it was sold to another reverend, the Rev Henry Francis Cary, who was a poet and notable translator of Dante’s Inferno. Cary later took a job as an Assistant Librarian at the British Museum.
The Museum
The property changed hands several times until it was bought and restored in 1901 by Robert William Shipway, who teamed up with Hogarth’s biographer to turn it into a museum. Together, they commissioned replica furniture, gathered examples of Hogarth’s works, and collaborated on the museum’s first guidebook. The museum opened to the public in 1904 and has remained open, except for a ten-year period when it closed due to damage from a parachute mine in 1940. Today, visitors can get a glimpse of Hogarth’s life and learn more about this interesting man.
Hogarth House: Practical Information
Hogarth House is a historic building located in Chiswick, West London. It was the former residence of the famous artist William Hogarth and is now a museum dedicated to his life and works.
Here is some practical information for visitors to Hogarth House:
- Opening Hours: Hogarth House is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 12 pm to 5 pm. It is closed on Mondays.
- Admission Fees: Admission to Hogarth House is free for everyone.
- Guided Tours: Guided tours are available for groups of 10 or more people. These tours must be booked in advance by contacting the museum.
- Accessibility: Hogarth House is fully accessible for visitors with disabilities. There is a ramp at the entrance, and the ground floor is wheelchair accessible. However, the upper floors are not accessible by wheelchair.
- Facilities: There are toilets and a small gift shop on the ground floor of Hogarth House. However, there is no café or restaurant on site.
- Photography: Visitors are allowed to take photographs in the museum, but no flash photography is allowed.
Overall, Hogarth House is a must-visit destination for art lovers and history enthusiasts. With its fascinating exhibits and beautiful architecture, it offers a unique glimpse into the life and works of one of Britain’s most celebrated artists.