The Flemish Surgeon 1760

Editor: This is Jean Daullé's "The Flemish Surgeon." It doesn't have a specific date, but Daullé lived in the 18th century. The etching is incredibly detailed. What's your take on its depiction of labor? Curator: Look closely at the tools displayed. The arrangement emphasizes the materiality of the surgical practice. The setting, almost domestic, challenges the perceived high status of medicine by grounding it in everyday life and labor. How does this demystification affect your understanding? Editor: I see what you mean; the ordinary setting really brings it down to earth. It's interesting how it connects skill with craft in a tangible way. Curator: Precisely! Reflect on the social context: Who had access to such care, and what does the print's circulation tell us about consumption and class? Editor: I hadn't considered the audience. It's a good reminder to think about who would have owned and viewed this. Thanks!