Meaning: William Hogarth was an English painter, printmaker, and pictorial satirist who lived during the 18th century. He is best known for his series of narrative paintings, such as "A Rake's Progress" and "Marriage A-la-Mode," which depict the moral and social issues of his time. The quote "All the world is competent to judge my pictures except those who are of my profession" reflects Hogarth's belief that the general public is capable of understanding and appreciating his art, while his fellow artists may be biased or overly critical.

In this quote, Hogarth suggests that the general public, or "all the world," is able to form valid opinions about his artwork, regardless of their level of expertise in the field of art. He implies that people from various backgrounds and professions can engage with and interpret his pictures in meaningful ways. This idea challenges the notion that art appreciation is limited to those with formal training or professional experience in the arts.

Hogarth's statement can be interpreted in several ways. On one hand, it may reflect his confidence in the communicative power of his art. He may have believed that his works were accessible and relevant to a wide audience, and that their impact could be understood by people from all walks of life. By suggesting that "all the world" is competent to judge his pictures, he may have been emphasizing the universality of the themes and messages conveyed in his art.

Furthermore, the quote may also express Hogarth's frustration with the art establishment of his time. As an artist who often sought to challenge social norms and criticize the aristocracy through his work, he may have felt that his fellow artists, who were part of the same professional circles and institutions, were less receptive to his unconventional approach. Hogarth's use of the phrase "except those who are of my profession" suggests that he perceived a certain bias or lack of understanding among his peers, which led him to seek validation and appreciation from a broader audience.

It is important to note that Hogarth was a pivotal figure in the development of English art and is often credited with elevating the status of painting in Britain. His innovative approach to storytelling through visual narratives and his commitment to addressing social and moral issues in his work set him apart from many of his contemporaries. Therefore, his assertion that "all the world is competent to judge my pictures" may also reflect his desire to democratize art and make it more accessible to the public, rather than confining it to the exclusive realm of the art world.

In conclusion, William Hogarth's quote "All the world is competent to judge my pictures except those who are of my profession" encapsulates his belief in the universal appeal and relevance of his art, as well as his willingness to challenge the traditional boundaries of art appreciation. By inviting diverse audiences to engage with his work and by expressing his reservations about the attitudes of his fellow artists, Hogarth exemplified a forward-thinking and inclusive approach to art that continues to resonate with audiences today.