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• January 2010 - Doctor Cupid

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January 2010 - Doctor Cupid

As we update this section only in the middle of the month and as many of our College members read it when they receive their electronic newsletter at the end of each month, it is already time (if we don't wish to miss it) to look ahead to Valentine's Day on 14 February.

This is a small but quirky Meissen figurine from circa 1750 which goes under the name of 'Doctor Cupid'. He must be the original Love Doctor, predating Barry White by over two centuries. Naturally the museum collected the piece, back in October 1937, on account of the green-glazed nose spectacles. It cost the Association £12, though on this occasion they secured a 15% discount!

Other medical historians with that kind of money to spare might have paid more attention to what the winged Doctor is holding; it appears to be an enema syringe.  The quiver for his love arrows has been discarded and rests against the gilded 'lappet' base. He is also wearing the mauve robes which would have been associated with a German judge of the period though the significance of that is anyone's guess.

Altogether this is a delightful piece but possibly not something to give your lover.