16th century barber shop
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
16th century barber shop
Medical treatment in a barber shop. This early 16th century woodcut depicts the treatment of a skin disease (right) and blood letting (left) by barber surgeons. A man is being advised on use of a skin ointment and an incision is being made in a womans arm whilst her blood is collected in a bowl. Practitioners from medieval times right through to the Renaissance believed that illness was caused by an imbalance in bodily fluids, which could be rectified by draining blood. This was often performed in barber shops, hence their red and white sign - signifying blood and the blade
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6419903
© CORDELIA MOLLOY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1500s 16th Century Consultation Humour Skin Disease Skin Disorder Surgeons Surgery Surgical Treatment Wood Cut Barber Surgeons Humours
EDITORS COMMENTS
This 16th-century woodcut takes us back in time to a bustling barber shop, where medical treatments were carried out with both precision and humor. The intricate illustration showcases the expertise of barber surgeons as they attend to patients suffering from various ailments. On the right side of the print, we witness a consultation between a barber surgeon and a man afflicted by a skin disease. The attentive practitioner advises him on the application of a skin ointment, aiming to restore balance to his bodily fluids. Meanwhile, on the left side, another scene unfolds as an incision is skillfully made in a woman's arm while her blood flows into a waiting bowl. This practice known as bloodletting was believed to alleviate imbalances within the body. During this era spanning medieval times through the Renaissance, illness was attributed to these imbalances in bodily fluids or "humours". Barber shops served not only as places for haircuts but also as centers for medical treatment due to their association with bloodletting practices. It is fascinating how this historical artwork captures such significant aspects of early surgical procedures and beliefs surrounding medicine. The vibrant red and white sign hanging outside signifies both blood (red) and blades (white), symbolizing that these establishments offered services related to surgery and healing. This remarkable woodcut serves as an invaluable testament to our understanding of medical history during this period.
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