The First Stage of Cruelty

Discover the allure of art with our faithful reproduction of "The First Stage of Cruelty", originally brought to life by the talented William Hogarth. Unlike posters or prints, our hand-painted oil painting breathes an unique sense of depth and texture into your space. Every detail, every stroke, and every texture is meticulously recreated, paying the perfect homage to William Hogarth and his artistic vision.

Owning this piece is more than just decoration - it's a statement of your refined taste in art. Let the vibrant colors and intricate details of this replica serve as a daily reminder of the beauty in our world. Elevate your decor and appreciate the richness of art with our replica of this masterpiece.

"The First Stage of Cruelty" is an engraving by the English artist William Hogarth, created in 1751 as part of a series aimed at depicting the progressive nature of cruelty. This work serves as a moralistic warning, illustrating the early signs of cruelty towards animals leading to more severe human crimes. The scene is set in a bustling London street, where Hogarth portrays various acts of cruelty inflicted by boys on animals. Central to the image is a boy torturing a dog by inserting an arrow into its rectum, surrounded by other youths engaged in similarly violent acts against different animals. This engraving, along with its companion pieces, was intended by Hogarth to educate the lower classes, whom he believed were prone to such brutal behaviors. By highlighting the consequences of cruelty in its nascent stage, Hogarth aimed to promote societal reform and encourage compassion. "The First Stage of Cruelty" is often analyzed for its commentary on the desensitization to violence and the potential for this to escalate into more grievous actions, reflecting Hogarth's concerns about moral decay in 18th-century society.

When you order this oil painting replica, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to paint. If the artwork is more complex, it might need a little more time to ensure the best quality. Once it's ready, we'll send you a photo for your approval. After you give the green light, we'll ship it to you for free.

We believe in the quality of our hand-painted oil painting reproductions, and your satisfaction is our priority. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 45-day return policy. You can return your artwork within 45 days of receipt and receive a full refund. Please note that the artwork must be returned in the original packaging and in the same condition as it was received.