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Thomas Guy / Counting Coin
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Thomas Guy / Counting Coin
A miser, looking round suspiciously, carefully counts his money. (A portrait of Thomas Guy.) Date: Early 18th Century
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Media ID 14270849
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1722 1724 Avarice Cane Coin Counting Crutches Founder Miser Philanthropist Paranoid
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EDITORS COMMENTS
1. Title: "Thomas Guy: The Paranoid Miser of 18th Century London, Counting His Coins" In this evocative early 18th century portrait, Thomas Guy, a renowned English bookdealer, philanthropist, and founder of the Thomas Guy's Hospital in London, is depicted in a moment of intense concentration as he meticulously counts his coins. The image, filled with intrigue and suspense, captures the enigmatic persona of this complex historical figure. Thomas Guy, born in 1644, was known for his avarice and paranoia, which were often at odds with his philanthropic endeavors. Despite his wealth, he lived a frugal life, always wary of potential threats to his fortune. This portrait, with Thomas' furrowed brow and suspicious gaze, encapsulates the essence of his legendary miserly nature. The presence of the cane and crutches in the image adds an additional layer of intrigue. While there is no definitive record of why Thomas used these aids, it is believed that they may have been a result of an injury or illness. Alternatively, they could have been a symbol of his age or a deliberate attempt to further emphasize his mysterious demeanor. Thomas Guy's philanthropic legacy, however, far outshines his reputation as a miser. In 1722, he founded Thomas Guy's Hospital in London, which provided care for the elderly poor. The hospital, which still exists today, was a testament to his generosity and compassion, offering a stark contrast to the image of the miser portrayed in this portrait. This evocative portrait of Thomas Guy, with its intriguing blend of mystery and history, offers a glimpse into the complexities of a man who, despite his reputation as a miser, left a lasting impact on London's history through his philanthropic endeavors.
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