A scene in Bridewell Prison with the harlot and other prisoners shown beating hemp, the warder standing over her, prodding her. They stand under a sign that reads "Better to work than stand thus."
Alternative Title:
In the Bridewell beating hemp, with many others in the like circumstances
Description:
Printer's statement from Plate I of the series., Copy in reverse of Hogarth's print published in 1732; Bowles at the Mercer's Hall address 1725-1731., Engraved below image, three columns, six lines each, beginning: See Polly now in Bridewell stands, A gauling mallet in her hands ..., Sheet trimmed within plate mark., No. 4 of a series of 6 pirated copies of Hogarth's engravings of "A harlot's progress". Imprint varies from the Bowles copy described as no. 2036, Catalogue of prints and drawings in the British Museum. Division I, political and personal satires, v. 3., and In contemporary hand, below engraved text: Margery. For further information, consult library staff.
Publisher:
Printed for John Bowles at Mercer's Hall in Cheapside
