The Four Stages of Cruelty by William Hogarth (1697–1764)

William Hogarth (1697-1764) was a British painter, engraver, pictorial satirist and editorial cartoonist. The Four Stages of Cruelty charts the progression, from mistreatment of animals, to homicide ultimately leading to justice and retribution.

First stage of cruelty

Second stage of cruelty

Cruelty in perfection

The reward of cruelty

Source: William Hogarth [Public domain], Wikimedia Commons

Violence - the naked truth

Battle of the Nudes is an engraving by Florentine goldsmith and sculptor Antonio del Pollaiuolo, who lived between 1429 (or 1433) and 1498. It is in fact his only surviving engraving but "remains one of the most famous prints of the Renaissance." (source Wikipedia)

Battle of the Nudes depicts two groups of five men, all of whom are described as 'grimacing fiercely' with 'strongly emphasised musculature'; all of which may lead you to ask, is violence really gay?

Antonio del Pollaiolo [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

History of Violence c.1500: Sword Fighting

Sword Fighting Manual c.1500 | Retronaut:

'via Blog this'

Hello World

The Museum of Violence website will be appearing here shortly.

Watch this space (if you dare)!