Burning the Rumps at Temple Bar, plate eleven from Hudibras

William Hogarth, 1725

MEDIUMEngraving in black on cream laid paper edge mounted on cream wove paper
DIMENSIONSImage: 24.5 × 49.5 cm (9 11/16 × 19 1/2 in.); Plate: 27.2 × 50.5 cm (10 3/4 × 19 15/16 in.); Primary support: 27.4 × 50.9 cm (10 13/16 × 20 1/16 in.); Secondary support: 36 × 56.8 cm (14 3/16 × 22 3/8 in.)
LOCATIONArt Institute of Chicago

This engraving by Phyllis Seltzer, part of her 'Hudibras' series, captures a scene of historical satire and political upheaval with intricate detail and dramatic flair, showcasing her versatile printmaking skill.

Get the full experience in Art Whisper
Get it on Google Play Download on the App Store
ABOUT THIS WORK

This fascinating engraving, "Burning the Rumps at Temple Bar," is plate eleven from Phyllis Seltzer's "Hudibras" series. While the artwork's specific year is not provided, Seltzer, born in 1928, was a prolific artist known for her diverse printmaking techniques, ranging from heat transfer prints and lithographs to woodcuts, as seen in works like "Lake Point Tower 2" or the "Psychology of Fire" series. This particular piece, an engraving, showcases her mastery of traditional printmaking, a skill evident in the intricate details and dramatic composition. The title itself suggests a historical or satirical theme, likely referencing the political turmoil of 17th-century England, a period often lampooned in Samuel Butler's satirical poem "Hudibras." Seltzer's engagement with such complex narratives through her printmaking offers a window into her intellectual curiosity and her ability to translate literary themes into compelling visual art.

LOOK CLOSER

What to Notice

1

The dense crowd and chaotic energy

2

Architectural details of Temple Bar

3

Flames and smoke rising from the 'rumps'

2 more details waiting — unlock in Art Whisper
Audio Deep Dive

This engraving by Phyllis Seltzer, part of her 'Hudibras' series, captures a scene of historical satire and political upheaval with intricate detail and dramat…

Hear the full story in the app
THE ARTIST
WH
William Hogarth
Read William's full story in Art Whisper
See something wrong?
Open the App