Cruelty in Perfection

John Bell, after William Hogarth

National Gallery of Art

This is a black and white drawing of a chaotic scene in a town at night. The detailed image features people gathered outdoors under a crescent moon. A woman lies on the ground in front of them next to various objects including a lantern, a bag, papers, and bottles. One paper reads, "Here Lieth the Body." The figures show expressions of confusion, panic, or distress with one pointing and others conversing. The background shows a tall brick building, trees, and a distant building. The scene suggests an alarming event among the onlookers.