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South American healing, 16th century
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South American healing, 16th century
South American healing. 16th-century artwork of indigenous people in South America carrying out healing rites on a male patient (centre). A monkey and parrot are at top. Artwork from Cosmographie universelle (1575) by the French explorer and writer Andre Thevet (1516-1590). This book described the history and geography of the lands in which Thevet had travelled. The two volumes and four tomes contain over 1000 pages divided into 23 books. This woodcut is from chapter XI of book XXI
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9199661
© MIDDLE TEMPLE LIBRARY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1500s 1575 16th Century Andre Thevet Anthropological Anthropology Book 21 Brazil Brazilian Cosmographie Universelle Culture Ethnography French Heal Healer Healing Indigenous Latin America Local Mediaeval Medieval Middle Ages Monkey Native Natural History Parrot Patient Religion Religious Remedy Ritual South America South American Superstition Traditional Treat Treating Treatment Tribal Tribe Village Witchcraft Women Woodcut Condition Disorder Healers Rite Witchdoctor
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant moment in South American healing practices during the 16th century. The artwork, created by French explorer and writer Andre Thevet, showcases indigenous people from South America engaged in ancient healing rites on a male patient at the center of attention. A monkey and parrot can be seen perched atop, adding an intriguing touch to the scene. The image is derived from Thevet's renowned book "Cosmographie universelle" published in 1575. This extensive work delves into the history and geography of lands explored by Thevet himself. With over 1000 pages divided into 23 books, this woodcut specifically belongs to chapter XI of book XXI. In this historical depiction, we witness a Brazilian village immersed in traditional healing practices where local healers employ their knowledge to treat various ailments. Amidst the rustic setting of huts and natural surroundings, these indigenous healers utilize their expertise passed down through generations to provide remedies for diseases and conditions. This photograph offers us a glimpse into South American culture during the Middle Ages when medicine was intertwined with religion and superstition. It sheds light on the intricate rituals performed by tribal healers or witchdoctors who played crucial roles within their communities. Todd-White Art Photography has beautifully captured this monochrome artwork that holds immense anthropological significance as it portrays both men and women actively participating in healing ceremonies within their native environment.
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