Often a self-portrait of an artist fulfills the function of a manifesto, which declares the author’s artistic program. Here Hogarth used a common baroque reception, framing his image with an additional frame. However, contrary to the typically baroque representation of a person with all regalia pointing to his social position, Hogarth portrayed himself in a home attire, without a wig, in the company of his Trump pug.
Thus, the artist wanted to say that for him it is more important not for the official status of a person, but for his private world, not for his role in society, but for his personality and character. The books depicted in the picture – the volumes of Shakespeare, Swift and Milton – demonstrate the artist’s dedication to English literature.
Related Paintings
Portrait of Mary Edwards by William Hogarth 
Career Mota. Mot in Bedlam by William Hogarth 
Gates of Calais, or O, roast beef of old England by William Hogarth 
Portrait of William Cavendish, Marquise of Hartington by William Hogarth 
Portrait of Bishop Howley by William Hogarth 
Autoportrait avec un chien – William Hogarth 
Girl with shrimp by William Hogarth 
Sarah Malcolm by William Hogarth