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London doctors, satirical artwork
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London doctors, satirical artwork
The Company of Undertakers (1736), also known as Consultation of Quacks. This satirical artwork was designed and engraved by the English artist William Hogarth (1697-1764). It takes the form of a coat-of-arms with crossbones and the Latin motto Et Plurima Mortis Imago (And Many an Image of Death). The three figures at top, from left to right, are: John Taylor, Sarah Mapp, and Joshua Ward. Those below them are sniffing the disinfectant in their canes. This version is from 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 6331579
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1700s 1736 18th Century 1921 Art History Caricature Caricaturised Charlatan Consulting Diagnosing Diagnosis Die Karikatur Und Satire In Der Medizin Disinfectant Doctor Doctors Eugen Hollander History Of Medicine Latin Text Physician Physicians Quack Quackery Satire Satirical Sniffing Urinal Urine Canes Charlatans Conferring Cross Bones John Taylor Mono Chrome Motto Quacks Undertaker Undertakers William Hogarth
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This print captures the essence of London's medical scene in the 18th century. Titled "The Company of Undertakers" or "Consultation of Quacks" this satirical artwork by William Hogarth serves as a witty critique on the state of medicine during that era. The image takes the form of a coat-of-arms, adorned with crossbones and accompanied by the Latin motto "Et Plurima Mortis Imago" meaning "And Many an Image of Death". In this comical portrayal, three prominent figures sit atop the composition: John Taylor, Sarah Mapp, and Joshua Ward. Below them, individuals can be seen sniffing disinfectant concealed within their canes - a humorous nod to their questionable practices. Originally engraved in 1736, this particular version is featured in Eugen Hollander's book "Caricature and Satire in Medicine". Hollander was both an art historian and physician who recognized the significance of Hogarth's work within medical history. Through its clever caricaturization and attention to detail, this artwork sheds light on quackery prevalent at that time. It offers us a glimpse into an era where diagnosis often relied on unconventional methods such as urine examination using urinals. "The Company of Undertakers" stands not only as a testament to Hogarth's artistic prowess but also as a historical artifact reflecting society's perception of doctors during that period.
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