John Wilkes
The son of a Clerkenwell malt distiller John Wilkes (1725-1797) was a radical MP and journalist whose activities caused a series of political crises in the 1760's. He was renowned in 18th century political circles as a rake and hedonist but despite this he was able to antagonise the Government and his actions had a significant impact both inside and outside Parliament, leading to legal and parliamentary reform.
This image by Hogarth is a caricature of a man who by his own admission was not blessed with good looks, but whom was portrayed by others with more respect than that displayed here.
Title
John Wilkes Esq
Artist
William Hogarth
Date
1763
Catalogue number
WOA 3743