In 1731 the humane artist William Hogarth is struck by the plight of prostitutes who have descended into Mother Neddwell's brothels and determines to paint a series of cautionary tableaux,using young prostitute Mary Collins. Hogarth's wife and father-in-law are dismayed but Hogarth has no sexual interest in Mary,hoping only to help her with the posing fee he gives her. Unfortunately life mirrors art as Mary's downfall follows that of the harlot in the paintings.