“The Four Times of Day: Night,” created by William Hogarth in 1736, is an oil painting on canvas that belongs to the Rococo art movement. Measuring 63.8 x 76.3 cm, this artwork is a genre painting and is part of the series titled “The Four Times of Day.” Currently, it is housed in Upton House, Upton, UK.
The artwork intricately captures the bustling and somewhat chaotic atmosphere of a nighttime scene. It depicts various figures engaged in different activities, presenting a vivid portrayal of urban life during the night. The central focus is on two disheveled characters, one holding a lantern, who seem to be intoxicated, possibly indicating the presence of nightlife and revelry. The surrounding buildings and signs contribute to the dense urban setting, with several other characters engaging in acts that range from carelessly lighting fires to children peering out from windows, all contributing to the lively and somewhat disorderly scene. The depiction of the sky with a blend of clouds and moonlight adds a sense of depth and ambiance. Hogarth’s keen observation of human behavior is evident through the detailed expressions and actions of the figures, all of which are rendered with a delicate Rococo touch.
