[Charles spends his fortune] [art original]

The second drawing in a series of twelve on modern morals, a tradition established earlier in the 18th century by artists such as William Hogarth. In this series, twin brothers are bestowed an equal fortune. One brother, Edward, husbands his wealth and on his death, passes on his fortune; whilst the other brother, Charles, squanders his, leaving his family destitute

In this second drawing, Charles stands in an elegant room as he is measured for new cloths by a tailor who kneels to his right with a tape measure raised to Charles's leg; on the floor at his feet is a bolt of fabric and a scissors. Behind them on the right, a servant holds up a large silver urn for Charles's approval; it is reflected in one of two large Venetian mirrors on the wall behind, the second being hung by two servants. On the left, a woman in a large hat sits in an chair beside a round tea table holding another bolt of fabric; she sits in front of a large window through which is seen a elegant square with an equestrian statue. A little dog jumps toward Charles