Home > Arts > Artists > P > Jean Louis Petit
18th century surgeon performing a trepanning
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
18th century surgeon performing a trepanning
18th century surgeon performing a trepanning operation on a mans head, with various surgical equipment: Jean Louis Petits lever 2, trestle 3, Valets pincers 4, cauterizers 5-8, round plaque 9, triangular plaque 10 and handle to mount cauterizer 11. Copperplate engraving by Robert Benard from Denis Diderots Encyclopedia, Pellet, Geneva, 1779
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23168422
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Benard Denis Diderot Drill Handle Lever Operation Pincers Plaque Surgeon Surgical Trepanation Trepanning Trestle Triangular Valets
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Mammals
> Cercopithecidae
> Drill
> Arts
> Artists
> B
> Robert Benard
> Arts
> Artists
> D
> Denis Diderot
> Arts
> Artists
> P
> Jean Louis Petit
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images August 2021
EDITORS COMMENTS
1. Title: "An 18th Century Surgical Procedure: A Surgeon Performing Trepanning on a Man's Head" This copperplate engraving, created by Robert Benard for Denis Diderot's Encyclopedia published in Pellet, Geneva, in 1779, offers a fascinating glimpse into the medical practices of the 18th century. The image depicts a skilled surgeon in the process of performing a trepanning operation on a man's head. Trepanning, an ancient surgical procedure, involved drilling a hole in the skull to relieve pressure or treat various conditions, including traumatic injuries and certain types of infections. The surgeon in the engraving is meticulously focused on his task, his expression a testament to the intensity and concentration required for such a procedure. He holds a large drill, or trepan, in his right hand, with a handle attached for added leverage. The drill bit is mounted on a trestle, which provides stability and allows the surgeon to apply steady pressure. Assisting the surgeon are various surgical instruments, including valets pincers, cauterizers, round plaque, and triangular plaque. The valets pincers are used to hold and retract the skin and tissue, while the cauterizers are employed to stop the bleeding and prevent infection. The round and triangular plaques serve as protective shields for the surgeon's hands, preventing them from coming into direct contact with the patient's skull during the procedure. The intricate details of the engraving reveal the precision and dedication of the surgeon, as well as the advanced knowledge and techniques employed during the 18th century. This image offers a unique perspective on the history of medicine and the remarkable advances made during this era.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
