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The Infallible Mountebank or Quack Doctor, 1688-1705 (engraving)
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The Infallible Mountebank or Quack Doctor, 1688-1705 (engraving)
XJF872713 The Infallible Mountebank or Quack Doctor, 1688-1705 (engraving) by Laroon, Marcellus the Elder (1653-1702) (after); Private Collection; English, out of copyright
Media ID 12941580
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Bottle Bottles Chest Harlequin Medic Monkey Mountebank Quack Quack Doctor
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This intriguing engraving titled "The Infallible Mountebank or Quack Doctor" captures the essence of satire and deception prevalent during the late 17th to early 18th centuries. Created by Marcellus Laroon, a renowned English artist, this print showcases a scene filled with curious characters and hidden meanings. Set in an elaborate Dutch interior, we see a flamboyant man adorned in an extravagant Harlequin costume. This character is none other than the infamous mountebank or quack doctor himself, known as Hans Buling. With his ostentatious hat and array of medicine bottles displayed on an apothecary chest, he exudes confidence and authority over his unsuspecting audience. Amidst the spectacle stands a mischievous monkey, symbolizing both curiosity and deceit. The monkey's presence hints at the trickery involved in these dubious medical practices that were common during this era. Through this satirical artwork, Laroon cleverly exposes the charlatans who exploited people's trust by peddling ineffective remedies for various ailments. It serves as a reminder of society's vulnerability to false promises and our innate desire for quick fixes. "The Infallible Mountebank or Quack Doctor" offers us a glimpse into history while highlighting timeless themes of human gullibility and manipulation. As we observe this engraving from Laroon's private collection today, it prompts us to reflect on how far we have come in distinguishing between genuine medical expertise and deceptive practices that
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