The Tooth Ache, or, Torment & Torture

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Object numberHC.J.16.X.8
TitleThe Tooth Ache, or, Torment & Torture
Creator Thomas LondonLondonRowlandson (Artist), John Fairburn (Publisher)
DescriptionHand coloured engraving on paper by Thomas Rowlandson (1756-1827) in 1823 and published by John Fairburn, Broadway, Ludgate Hill, London, 1st August 1823.
A rustic bewigged barber holds a buxom woman's head with his left hand and examines her teeth with his right index finger. A young assistant holds exaggerated forceps and a hand-held cuspidor for the patient to spit into. OBviously, the pain is very severe and the seated victim certainly apprehensive. To the left an elderly woman holds her cheek, perhaps waiting to be the next patient. A bowl to the right appears to be water for hand-washing, a very basic (and ineffective) form of sanitary practise.
The poster behind the dentist reads:
BARNABY FACTOTUM
Draws Teeth, Bleeds & Shaves
Wigs made here, also Sausages
Wash Balls, black Puddings,
Scotch Pills Powder for the Itch
Red Herrings, Breeches Balls
and small Beer by the maker
IN UTRUMQUE PARATUS
As shown by the above, specialisation in the medical profession was not common during this period and commercial space was often used for a mutlitude of purposes by one person. 'In Utrumque Paratus' roughly translates as 'Prepared for anything.'
Production date accurate 1823-08-01
Object nameEngravings
Object categoryDental
MaterialPaper
TechniqueEngravings
Dimensions
- Height: 26.9 cm
Width: 21.6 cm
Mounted Height: 71 cm
Width: 56 cm