A Visit to the Doctor by Thomas Rowlandson

A Visit to the Doctor by Thomas Rowlandson

c.1971

Limited edition lithograph

This limited-edition satirical lithograph, titled "A Visit to the Doctor," was issued by Editions Medicina Rara in 1971 as a fine art facsimile of an original 1811 design by the renowned British caricaturist Thomas Rowlandson. The scene depicts an anxious, rustic couple consulting a decrepit, elderly physician in his study, while a grinning servant looks on from the background. The portly patient explains their paradoxical dilemma via a speech bubble by stating that while he and his dame eat, drink, and sleep perfectly well, they still feel "somehow queerish." This prompts the opportunistic doctor to gleefully declare that he will prescribe something to "do away all these things." Executed with Rowlandson's characteristic fluid linework, animated gestures, and vibrant hand-coloring, the composition masterfully exaggerates the physical traits of the characters to heighten the theatrical comedy and sharpen the critique on medical opportunism.

Originally produced during the "Golden Age" of British graphic satire, this work reflects the era's widespread public skepticism and lighthearted ridicule aimed at the medical profession. Thomas Rowlandson (1757 to 1827) was one of the period's most prolific and accomplished artists, expanding on the moralistic tradition of William Hogarth by infusing visual commentary with uninhibited wit and everyday observations. While the original 19th-century impressions were distributed as hand-colored etchings, this high-quality 1971 facsimile remains historically important for keeping early modern print culture accessible to modern collectors, beautifully documenting late-Georgian social attitudes and showcasing how satire served as a powerful tool for public critique.

Dimensions: H 14” x 17” W

Condition: In very good condition