Limited edition reproduction of The Plague Doctor VIII from The Jobs of Yesteryear Series.

Plague doctors sprang up during epidemics in medieval Europe to treat the sick. They were not normally medically trained professionals and often were second-rate doctors unable to otherwise run a successful medical business. Plague doctors wore a variety of garments, but many chose a protective gown made of heavy waxed fabric and beak-like mask with glass eye openings. The beak would hold aromatic herbs and straw, which was believed to protect the doctor from “bad air”. They would also brandish a long, wooden cane to examine the patients without touching them. It was also a means of repenting sins, as many believed that the plague was punishment and would ask to be whipped to repent their sins. The Black Death plague killed one-third of Europe during its 14th century reign and ended due to improved hygiene, the burning of the dead rather than burial, and the implementation of quarantine.

Edition Size: 33

Matted Print:
-4x16 inch paper print
-16x20 inch white mat
-Printed on acid-free paper
-Archival inks
-Signed and numbered

Wood Panel Print:
-6x24 inches
-Printed on acid-free paper
-Archival inks
-Mounted permanently to a custom-made, 1.5 inch thick wood box
-Ready to hang
-Signed and numbered