Patiënt lijdend aan de huidziekte 'elephantiasis' before 1881

This photograph shows a patient suffering from elephantiasis and was made in the late 19th century. The image is striking not only for its clinical depiction of the disease but also for what it reveals about medical practices and societal attitudes of the time. In an era marked by burgeoning scientific inquiry, photography became a tool for cataloging and studying medical conditions. This image, likely intended for medical education or research, reflects a growing interest in documenting and understanding disease through visual means. Made in a time when modesty was highly valued, the covering of the patient's face raises questions about privacy, dignity, and the power dynamics between doctor and patient. To truly understand such an image, we need to delve into the medical literature, ethical debates, and social norms of the 19th century, which allows us to reflect on how we view health, illness, and the human body.