Simplicity, without variety, is wholly insipid.

- William Hogarth

Straight lines vary only in length, and therefore are least ornamental.

- William Hogarth

I had rather, if cruelty has been prevented by the four prints [The Four Stages of Cruelty], be maker of them than of the [Raphael] cartoons.

- William Hogarth

I have generally found that persons who had studied painting least were the best judges of it.

- William Hogarth

The serpentine line, or the line of grace, by its waving and winding at the same time different ways, leads the eye in a pleasing manner along the co…

- William Hogarth

I think it is owing to the good sense of the English that they have not painted better.

- William Hogarth

I know of no such thing as genius, genius is nothing but labor and diligence.

- William Hogarth

Time is not a great artist but weakens all he touches.

- William Hogarth

All the world is competent to judge my pictures except those who are of my profession.

- William Hogarth