[Edward proposes marriage] [art original]

The fifth drawing in a series of twelve that follow a tradition of producing a series 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 fifth drawing, Edward sits in a parlor holding the hand of a young lady as she looks down demurely. Behind the couple, an older woman sits on a sofa sewing, her basket at the table before her. In addition to the fashionable sofa and chairs, the room is decorated with an ornate mirror with swags on the wall behind. On the wall to the left is a marble mantel with a Buddha and other decorative china