Bezoek van de dokter 1843 - 1876

Carel Christiaan Antony Last created this print, “Bezoek van de dokter”, sometime in the 19th century. The print offers a glimpse into the intimate and gendered spaces of domestic life in the Netherlands. Here, we see a doctor, distinguished by his fur-lined coat, inspecting a vial, while a woman sits, wrapped in a shawl, seemingly unwell. Her posture and the attention she receives highlight the societal expectations placed on women as caregivers and bearers of health. The maid in the background, preparing remedies, subtly underscores the division of labor within the household. The scene is rife with the dynamics of health, gender, and class. The woman's vulnerability is palpable, emphasized by the contrast with the doctor’s authoritative stance. The scene evokes questions about the historical roles assigned to women in health and illness. It reflects the emotional weight carried by those within the domestic sphere. This print captures a moment in time and also invites reflection on the enduring themes of care, gender, and the social fabric of health.