The Allen Koenigsberg Phonograph Collection
Lot 3231:
Description
From the sharp, satirical eye of a seasoned collector of Belle Époque ephemera, this 1906 color lithograph by celebrated French caricaturist Adrien Barrère (1874–1931), titled “La Femme Nue” (“The Naked Lady”), is an extraordinary window into Paris medical history. The print masterfully satirizes the legendary professors of the Faculté de Médecine de Paris, capturing their exaggerated physical traits and clinical legacies as they inspect a nude patient. This iconic line-up features heavily medaled surgeon Dr. Paul Segond, a pioneer of vaginal hysterectomy; Dr. Paul Reclus, holding a miniature dirigible to mock his studies on atmospheric pressure alongside a surgical trocar under his arm; ophthalmologist Dr. Félix de Lapersonne, sporting a large gold hoop earring as a nod to classic eyesight superstitions; patho physiologist Dr. Georges-Henri Roger, recognizable by his long, pointed dark beard; and pioneering neurologist Dr. Jules Dejerine, depicted in his signature dark skullcap. Beneath the operating table, the inclusion of early Pathe cylinder phonographs and champagne bottles delivers a stinging satirical swipe at the commercialized, theatrical nature of high-society medicine during the era. Framed under glass in a vintage black wooden casing, the piece features Barrère’s classic printed signature in the lower right corner as visible in image_6.png. Objectively, the piece displays age-appropriate toning, minor perimeter foxing, and slight paper rippling consistent with age, alongside light scuffing on the frame edges. Framed H 21″, W 39″, D 1″. Print measures H 17”, W 35”. Please see photos for condition. Note: Pickup/Transport required. Contacts available Post-Auction. From the Allen Koenigsberg collection.
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