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Perkins Tractors, satirical artwork

Perkins Tractors, satirical artwork


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Perkins Tractors, satirical artwork

Perkins Tractors. Satirical artwork showing the use of Perkins Patent Tractors, two short metal rods drawing out an electrical fluid said to cause disorders. Invented in 1796 by the US physician Elisha Perkins (1741-1799), this example of quackery was popularised in the UK by his son Benjamin. A newspaper advert for the treatment is on the table. This artwork, by the British caricaturist James Gillray (1756-1815), was published in London and dates from 1801. This copy 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)

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 6332001

© SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

1801 1921 Advert Advertisement Art History Benjamin Caricature Caricaturised Clinic Die Karikatur Und Satire In Der Medizin Doctor Eugen Hollander History Of Medicine James Gillray News Paper Pain Painful Patient Physician Quack Quackery Rods Satire Satirical Treating


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This print showcases a satirical artwork titled "Perkins Tractors" which humorously depicts the use of Perkins Patent Tractors, invented by US physician Elisha Perkins in 1796. The artwork, created by renowned British caricaturist James Gillray and published in London in 1801, highlights the absurdity of this quackery treatment that claimed to cure disorders through two short metal rods drawing out an electrical fluid. Intriguingly, Benjamin Perkins, Elisha's son, popularized this dubious invention in the UK. A newspaper advert promoting the treatment can be seen on the table beside the illustration. This particular copy of Gillray's artwork is featured in Eugen Hollander's book "Die Karikatur und Satire in der Medizin" (Caricature and Satire in Medicine) from 1921. The image captures a historical moment when such unconventional medical practices were prevalent. It offers a glimpse into how people perceived medicine during the early 19th century and serves as a reminder of our progress since then. The composition includes various elements like an adult male patient enduring pain while being treated with these supposed tractors. Additionally, there is an adorable pet dog present alongside its owner within this clinic setting. The caricatured figures add a touch of satire to highlight both their skepticism towards such treatments and their amusement at its absurdity. Overall, this thought-provoking print provides insight into medical history while showcasing James Gillray's artistic talent for capturing societal commentary through his satirical illustrations.

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