Portret van Paracelsus 1549 - 1584

This is an anonymous engraving of Paracelsus, a Renaissance physician and alchemist, made at an unknown date. The print offers us a glimpse into the world of early medicine and its complex relationship with emerging scientific thought. Paracelsus was a controversial figure, challenging established medical practices, advocating for observation and experience, and integrating alchemy and astrology into his treatments. This portrait captures the persona he cultivated, that of a learned yet unconventional healer. The hands, prominently displayed, are those of a man deeply engaged in his practice, a kind of embodied knowledge. It’s worth noting the historical context: medicine at this time was steeped in religious and mystical beliefs, existing in a space between science and the supernatural. Consider how Paracelsus, through his writings and practices, sought to transform the understanding of the body and disease. His contributions invite us to reflect on how we define and approach healing, and the power dynamics inherent in medical knowledge.