A busy street corner with traders stopping for a tankard of beer and an artist painting a pub sign. Engraving, c. 1751, after W. Hogarth.

In a street where beer is drunk left, right and centre, numerous details indicate the flourishing state of government, health, architecture, trade and literature. The only enterprise not succeeding it that of "N. Pinch, pawnbroker" (right). The matter of addiction to beer does not arise

The artist portrayed working on the inn sign is said to be Francis Hayman

[Place of publication not identified] : [publisher not identified], Publish'd according to Act of Parliament 1 February 1751.

1 print : engraving ; platemark 38.3 x 32.5 cm

Beer Street. design'd by W. Hogarth Beer, happy produce of our isle Can sinewy strength impart, And wearied with fatigue and toil Can chear each manly heart. Labour and art upheld by thee Succesfully advance, We quaff thy balmy juice with glee And water leave to France. Genius of health, thy grateful taste rivals the cup of jove, And warms each English generous breast With liberty and love

Wellcome Collection 26964i