Gunshot wound of the humerus
Object numberGC.13830
TitleGunshot wound of the humerus
CreatorCharles Bell (originator)
DescriptionGunshot wound of the humerus
Sketch in oil, glazed, in wooden frame. One of Charles Bell's paintings of a casualty from the Battle of Corunna and the retreat between 24 December 1808-11 January 1809. Bell treated some of the force that landed back in Britain at Portsmouth. There are fifteen images in all.
Bell's notes: "In this sketch in oil the apparently trifling nature of the wound, is represented. Through such a wound however the finger can be introduced, and if the bone be shattered, and in this instance, jagged points of the fragments will be felt, all around. The observation made to me on this very case was to this effect, when I feel the bone broken merely I do not amputate, but when I feel it thus, the finger passing through the bone, this is the case for amputation."
Bell's investigation of the wound using his finger would be the only method of diagnosis in this time before X-Ray. The jagged bone fragments he could feel indicate that this is a comminuted fracture, where there bone has been shattered, making it a target for prolonged and debilitating infection, with the potential of fatal sepsis, which is why Bell makes the case for amputation.
Production date c.post 1810-01-01 - 1810-01-01
Production periodNineteenth century (early)
Object nameGunshot wound to the humerus
Object categoryAnatomical, artwork
MaterialCanvas
Dimensions
- Framed Height: 51 cm
Width: 45.5 cm
Canvas Height: 28.5 cm
Width: 34 cm