William Hogarth - Before [c.1730-31]

William Hogarth - Before [c.1730-31], a photo by Gandalf's Gallery on Flickr.

This narrative painting describes the moments before a seduction. A young man in red breeches attempts to pull a young woman onto a bed. Struggling, she tries to push him away, dragging her dressing table down with her. Ironically, an open drawer reveals a book on the rules of courtship. Below, a small dog barks, alarmed by the commotion. 

[Oil on canvas, 14.25 x 13.25 inches]