Komt, kindertjes! komt hier, wilt doctor Steven kijken, / Met zijn knecht Spring in 't Veld, gij zaagt nooit zijns gelijken 1827 - 1894

This color lithograph was made by M. Hemeleers-van Houter in the Netherlands, sometime before 1880. It’s a satirical comic strip, offering a window into the social dynamics of the time, particularly around medicine and class. Each panel tells a small part of a story, seemingly poking fun at a doctor named Steven and his assistant, Spring in 't Veld. The imagery suggests a critique of the medical profession, perhaps highlighting perceived quackery or the exploitation of patients. Consider the context: the late 19th century saw the rise of modern medicine, but also skepticism towards it. By examining visual cues like clothing, settings, and interactions, we can decode the social commentary embedded within. Resources like historical archives, medical journals, and studies of Dutch social history could shed light on the specific concerns this artwork addresses. Ultimately, this image reminds us that art is always enmeshed in the social and institutional realities of its time.