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The Anatomist, 1811. Artist: Thomas Rowlandson
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The Anatomist, 1811. Artist: Thomas Rowlandson
The Anatomist, 1811. Cartoon showing the terror of a patient and his wife as a surgeon opens his bag of instruments. Seeing the skeleton in the cupboard and a poster on the wall advertising a series of anatomical lectures, they fear that the patient will die and his body be used for anatomical demonstration
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Media ID 14863969
© Oxford Science Archive / Heritage-Images
Anatomy Doctor Fear Feeling Husband Illness Medical Instrument Oxford Science Archive Patient Physician Rowlandson Skeleton Surgeon Surgery Terror Thomas Rowlandson Tricorn Tricorne Wife Worried Worry Metaphor
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this print by Thomas Rowlandson titled "The Anatomist, 1811" we are transported to a scene filled with fear and anticipation. The cartoon depicts a patient and his wife anxiously observing as a surgeon opens his bag of instruments. Their terror is palpable, heightened by the presence of a skeleton in the cupboard and an anatomical lecture poster on the wall. This artwork beautifully captures the concept of fear surrounding health and medical procedures in the 19th century. The couple's worry stems from their belief that if the patient were to die during surgery, his body would be used for anatomical demonstration – a common practice at that time. Rowlandson's clever use of satire and humor shines through in this piece. The exaggerated expressions on both the husband's and wife's faces add an element of comedy to an otherwise tense situation. Additionally, details such as the woman's tricorn hat and period clothing further immerse us in this historical moment. "The Anatomist" serves as a reminder of how medicine has evolved over time, shedding light on societal attitudes towards healthcare during this era. Through its intricate engravings and meticulous attention to detail, Rowlandson masterfully captures not only the fears associated with surgery but also provides insight into professions like anatomy and surgery in 19th-century England. Overall, this print offers viewers a glimpse into history while simultaneously entertaining us with its wit and artistic brilliance.
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