De aderlating

"De Aderlating" by Abraham Delfos, now in the Rijksmuseum, offers a glimpse into 18th-century medical practices and social dynamics. During this period, bloodletting was a common remedy, believed to balance the body's humors. In the image, we see two women engaged in this practice. Note the contrast in their attire. The woman receiving treatment, adorned in what looks like fancier attire, suggests her higher social standing compared to the other woman. Who is she? A servant, a paid medical practitioner? The artist leaves this open to interpretation. The hanging birdcage and map on the wall, gives the image a sense of domesticity and a feeling of routine. The scene evokes a sense of intimacy and care, yet it also reflects the era's limited medical knowledge. Delfos’ work invites us to consider the gendered aspects of healthcare and the power dynamics inherent in medical treatments. It prompts questions about who had access to care, and the varying roles women played within these interactions. How might this image challenge or reinforce the societal views about class, health and gender?