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Cholera doctor, satirical artwork
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Cholera doctor, satirical artwork
Cholera doctor. Satirical artwork of a London doctor gaining wealth (money at lower left) during an 1835 cholera epidemic. He is feasting on a cholera pie with a knife labelled The Lancet (medical journal). Imps are dancing round the pie, and a jar of brandy is at lower right. Board of Wealth is a wordplay on Board of Health. Cholera is a bacterial infection of the intestines that can be fatal. This artwork is by the British caricaturist Isaac Robert Cruikshank (1789-1856). 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 6331193
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1835 1921 Art History Bacterial Caricature Caricaturised Cholera Coin Coins Dancing Die Karikatur Und Satire In Der Medizin Disease Control Doctor Eating Epidemic Eugen Hollander Feeding History Of Medicine Infection Infectious Money Outbreak Physician Satire Satirical Vibrio Cholerae Wealth Board Of Health Brandy Condition Disorder Feasting Isaac Robert Cruikshank Mono Chrome Profiteering Robert Cruikshank
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This satirical artwork captures the dark irony of a London doctor profiting from the suffering caused by a cholera epidemic in 1835. Created by British caricaturist Isaac Robert Cruikshank, this print showcases the greed and callousness of a physician who feasts on a cholera pie while surrounded by dancing imps. The knife he wields is labeled "The Lancet" symbolizing his exploitation of medical knowledge for personal gain. In this powerful image, we see wealth represented by money at the lower left corner, emphasizing how financial motives overshadowed genuine concern for public health during this devastating outbreak. A jar of brandy at the lower right further highlights the doctor's indulgence and disregard for those afflicted with this infectious disease. The wordplay on "Board of Wealth" instead of "Board of Health" underscores how some individuals prioritized their own enrichment over combating cholera and saving lives. Cholera, a bacterial infection that can be fatal, ravaged communities during this period. Originally featured in Eugen Hollander's book "Die Karikatur und Satire in der Medizin" which explores humor and criticism within medicine, this artwork serves as both historical documentation and social commentary. It reminds us that even in times of crisis, there are those who exploit tragedy for personal gain. Through its intricate details and monochromatic style, this illustration transports us back to an era where profit often took precedence over compassion. It stands as a reminder to remain vigilant against such unethical practices even today when faced with similar challenges in healthcare systems worldwide.
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