Captain Thomas Coram 1796

This is William Nutter's engraving of Captain Thomas Coram, made in the late 18th century. Coram was a philanthropist, best known for his efforts to establish the London Foundling Hospital, a home for abandoned children. Consider the context of 18th-century England, a society marked by stark class divisions and social inequalities. While Coram sought to alleviate suffering, his efforts existed within a system where poverty and abandonment were widespread. The engraving itself reflects the power dynamics of the time. Coram is depicted as a figure of authority and benevolence, surrounded by symbols of his status and achievements. However, this image also presents us with questions about the complexities of charity and social reform. It invites us to reflect on who has the power to help, and how that power is exercised. Ultimately, this engraving is a poignant reminder of the human capacity for both compassion and indifference, and serves as a call to action for a more just and equitable world.