Portret van dokter Snel 1822

Here you can see a portrait of doctor Snel, made by Pieter van der Meulen. This portrait invites us to consider the historical and social position of medical professionals. Snel is depicted here with the accoutrements of his status: a glass of wine, a bottle, and what seems to be a lavish garment with a white lace collar. In a time when access to medical care was deeply stratified by class, physicians occupied a privileged position. It's interesting to consider the role alcohol plays in this image, because it was often intertwined with medical practice and social life. The doctor, like the artwork, becomes a signifier of cultural values and societal norms. The imagery of the "good doctor" was carefully constructed in the collective imagination, and this engraving plays into that narrative. How does this image shape our understanding of health, well-being, and societal roles?