[1] It was painted in approximately 1757 and published as a print in etching and engraving in 1758, with its final and sixth state in 1764.

[3] Hogarth's decision to paint this particular figure may relate to his artistic motto: "my picture was my stage and men and women my actors", as the Comic Muse was said to provide inspiration for playwrights.

[4] Leaning against the right leg of the easel is Hogarth's The Analysis of Beauty, a text which was written to complement this particular piece.

[1] The print of Hogarth Painting the Comic Muse went through several alterations mostly relating to the inscription at the bottom of the page.

In the fifth state, "Sergeant Painter" is scratched out, while changes have now also been made to the engraving itself; the Muse's face is now marked with black and on the pillar she stands beside is inscribed "Comedy 1764".