Foundling tower, 19th century
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Foundling tower, 19th century
Foundling tower, 19th-century artwork. This tower of abandonment, established in France 1730, is intended for mothers unable to support their infant children to leave them to be brought up by others. The mother would leave the child in the cubicle and ring the bell to alert the caretakers. This one is run by the Hopital de la Madeleine, part of a religious tradition established in Paris by Saint Vincent de Paul (1581-1660). Common in medieval times, modern forms of the foundling tower or wheel are called baby hatches. Artwork from the 17th volume (first period of 1896) of the French popular science weekly La Science Illustree
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6339287
© SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1700s 1890s 1896 18th Century Abandoned Annual Volume Baby Child Child Care France French Infant La Science Illustree Left Louis Figuier Magazine Paediatrics Pediatrics Popular Science Public Health Public Service Weekly 1730 Abandoned Child Charitable Foundling Health Care Mono Chrome Vincent De Paul
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the Foundling Tower, a poignant symbol of abandonment in 19th-century France. Established in 1730 as part of a religious tradition initiated by Saint Vincent de Paul, this tower served as a refuge for mothers who were unable to support their infant children. The tower allowed these desperate mothers to leave their babies in small cubicles and ring a bell to alert caretakers, ensuring that the infants would be brought up by others. The artwork, featured in the renowned French popular science weekly La Science Illustree, is from the 17th volume published in 1896. It offers us a glimpse into history when such charitable institutions were common during medieval times. Today's modern versions of foundling towers are known as baby hatches. This powerful image not only reflects on the historical practices surrounding child care but also sheds light on societal attitudes towards abandoned children and public health concerns at that time. The monochrome illustration evokes emotions of empathy and curiosity about an era long gone. As we observe this thought-provoking piece, we are reminded of the importance of compassion and understanding towards those facing difficult circumstances throughout history. This photograph serves as both an artistic representation and a reminder of our shared responsibility to protect vulnerable members of society.
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