Britain bans export of 18th-century satirical painting

British Culture Minister Matt Hancock stepped in Wednesday to prevent an 18th century painting by the artist William Hogarth from being exported.

Hancock has placed a temporary export ban on the satirical painting to keep it in the country.

The satirical painting, The Christening, is at risk of being exported from Britain unless a buyer can be found to match the asking price of 1.52 million U.S. dollars.

Hogarth is considered to be one of the most important figures in 18th century British art and culture, known for his satirical artwork. The Christening, his first painted comical scene, shows a christening taking place in a wealthy but disorderly home.

From the little girl about to knock over the christening bowl, to the dog about to rip apart a hat on the ground, the painting is a satirical scene of life in 18th century England.

"The painting marks Hogarth's beginning as a satirical artist and demonstrates his development into comical artwork," said a spokeswoman for the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Hancock said: "Hogarth is known as one of our greatest ever satirists and this is a significant early example of his work. The painting provides a valuable insight into 18th century life. Satire is an important part of our cultural heritage and as a fan of Hogarth's work I hope it can remain in the UK for the public to enjoy."

The decision to defer the export licence follows a recommendation by the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest, administered by The Arts Council.

The committee made its recommendation because of its outstanding significance for the study of William Hogarth, as well as for the study of 18th century cultural, literary and historical life.

The painting is an oil on canvas measuring 49.5 cm by 62.8 cm. Enditem