Chirurgeon and Barber, ca. 1670

Unlike quacks and tooth-pullers, surgeons enjoyed a respectable reputation. They performed operations and amputations, took care of wounds and injuries, and removed gall and kidney stones, amongst other things. Bloodletting was considered an effective remedy for many ailments. Often, surgeons were also barbers, or delegated shaving and haircutting to an assistant, as can be seen in the background of this painting. In the foreground, the surgeon is performing a bloodletting procedure on the right cheek of a patient. On the table, and beside it, lie surgical instruments, bandages and scissors, and a pan with glowing embers.