The artwork titled “The Invasion, France,” created by the artist William Hogarth in 1756, is a print measuring 29 x 37.5 cm. This piece falls under the Rococo art movement and is classified as an allegorical painting. It is part of the series “The Invasion.”
In the artwork, a chaotic and detailed scene of anticipation for an invasion unfolds. Soldiers equipped with muskets and bayonets appear to be preparing for a confrontation. A monk, depicted with a grotesque facial expression, is seen meticulously attending to some documents beside a wheelbarrow filled with tools of war and religious symbols. The background showcases a coastal area with ships disembarking soldiers, indicating the imminent threat of an invasion. The sign hanging from the building reads “D’Amod’s Pattes de Vel,” adding a touch of dark humor to the gravity of the situation. The visual satire is evident through the exaggerated expressions and chaotic composition, typical of Hogarth’s style, making this artwork a powerful commentary on the state of affairs during its time.
