Caricatures from Society's museum on show at Erasmus Darwin House in Lichfield
A selection of caricatures from the Royal Pharmaceutical Society's museum collections is currently on show in Lichfield as part of a temporary exhibition at Erasmus Darwin House, former home of Erasmus Darwin (1731–1802), a highly regarded physician, a leading poet, scientist, botanist and inventor and grandfather of Charles Darwin.
The display, entitled “Physician, heal thyself!”, shows a
number of late 18th century images that reflect views of medicine and
the medical profession during Darwin’s lifetime.
The recently restored Georgian house, in Beacon Street, is within Lichfield’s
cathedral close. It features Darwin’s surgery and has an 18th century
herb garden with the shrubs and herbs he used for medicinal preparations.
The exhibition runs until 19 October. It is open from Tuesday to Sunday
from noon to 5pm (last admission 4.15pm). Admission is £2.50 for
adults and £2 for children and senior citizens.
Further information can be obtained from the Erasmus Darwin Foundation
(tel 01543 306260; website www.erasmusdarwin.org).
Two of the caricatures on loan to Erasmus Darwin House
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“The Quack Doctor” by Thomas Rowlandson, published
in 1814 |
“Faith” by William Heath, published in 1829 |
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The
Pharmaceutical Journal