‘The Lust of the Flesh’, by Charles Bennett

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The Lust of the Flesh

Charles Bennett

1860

Wood engraving, engraved by Swain

3¼ x 3 inches

The Pilgrim’s Progress, 79.

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The ‘Lust of the Flesh’ is depicted as a stereotypically sensual woman with ‘wanton’ hair, a floral device in her hair (reinforcing the connection of women and nature), and a pearl necklace, perhaps the gift of an admirer. More emblem that living person, Bennett’s portrait exemplifies his use of the physiognomical code.

Bibliography

Bunyan, John. The Pilgrim’s Progress. London: Longman, Green, 1860.

Created 9 April 2022