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Hogarth Lane, Great West Road, W4
The former country home of the 18th century English artist William Hogarth in Chiswick.
Although Chiswick is now one of London's western suburbs, in the 18th century it was still a large village in the countryside. The house, which was modelled on Palladio's Villa Capra, near Vicenza, dates from the late 17th century with a low extension built in the early 18th century.
It was the Hogarth's country retreat from 1749 until his death in 1764, and he shared it with his wife, mother-in-law and sister.
Hogarth, the artist who will always be remembered for his depiction of the degradation of the poor in London's 18th century streets (Gin Lane), was born at St. Bartholomew's Close, near to Smithfield Market and later owned a house in Leicester Square but it was at his Chiswick home that he found a peaceful refuge from London life.
Two floors of the house are open and contain replicas of 18th century furniture. There is an exhibition documenting Hogarth's life and work. Copies of his best known series of engravings are on display including The Harlot's Progress, A Rake's Progress and Marriage a la Mode.
The house has an attractive garden which contains a mulberry tree which is at least 300 years old.
William Hogarth died at his Chiswick home, aged 67 and is buried in the graveyard of the nearby St. Nicholas' Church in Chiswick.
Admission free
Nearest tube: Turnham Green
Telephone: 020 8994 6757
Openening times: Tues-Fri 13.00-17.00 (Nov-March 13.00-16.00) Sat
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