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Gout and the Spider, allegorical artwork
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Gout and the Spider, allegorical artwork
Gout and the Spider. Artwork illustrating the fable of Gout and the Spider, as told by the French poet and author Jean de La Fontaine (1621-1695). This fable (number 8, book 3) appeared in the collection published in 1668. The fable tells how gout (a condition caused by uric acid crystals in the joints) affects wealthy people (man on bed with gout of the foot) rather than poor people. In contrast, the spider finds that it prospers best when lodging with poor people. Artwork from the German book Die Karikatur und Satire in der Medizin (Caricature and Satire in Medicine, 1921) by the German art historian and physician Eugen Hollander (1867-1932)
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Media ID 6330535
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1600s 17th Century 1921 Allegorical Allegory Art History Bandage Bandages Bed Room Caricature Caricaturised Caring Die Karikatur Und Satire In Der Medizin Doctor Doctors Eugen Hollander Foot French Gout History Of Medicine Home Metabolic Metabolism Patient Physician Priest Rich Satire Satirical Spider Treating Wealthy 1668 Cleric Condition Disorder Fable Jean De La Fontaine La Fontaine Mono Chrome
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This print titled "Gout and the Spider" is a thought-provoking allegorical artwork that beautifully illustrates the fable by Jean de La Fontaine. Created in 1921 by German art historian and physician Eugen Hollander, this piece delves into the contrasting effects of gout on wealthy individuals versus poor ones. In this intricate illustration, we see a rich man suffering from gout lying in his opulent bedroom, his foot bandaged due to the excruciating pain caused by uric acid crystals. The artist skillfully captures the agony experienced by those afflicted with this metabolic disorder. Meanwhile, perched nearby is a spider, representing prosperity. It finds solace among humble dwellings rather than lavish homes. The historical significance of this artwork lies not only in its depiction of an age-old medical condition but also in its satirical commentary on societal disparities. Through caricaturized figures like a priest and physicians attending to the patient, Hollander highlights how wealth does not shield one from ailments like gout. With its meticulous details and powerful symbolism, "Gout and the Spider" serves as a reminder that health can be elusive regardless of one's social status. This print invites viewers to reflect upon themes such as privilege, inequality, and human vulnerability while appreciating both artistic mastery and historical context within medicine's evolution.
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