Discover the masterpiece of American realism, The Gross Clinic, by renowned artist Thomas Eakins.
About the Artist
Thomas Cowperthwait Eakins (1844-1916) was an American realist painter, photographer, sculptor, and fine arts educator. He is widely acknowledged to be one of the most important American artists, known for his uncompromising realism and detailed depictions of everyday life. Eakins's works often featured people from his hometown of Philadelphia, including prominent figures in the arts, sciences, medicine, and clergy.
The Painting
The Gross Clinic, or
The Clinic of Dr. Gross, is an 1875 oil on canvas painting by Thomas Eakins, measuring 8 feet (240 cm) by 6.5 feet (200 cm). The painting depicts Dr. Samuel D. Gross, a seventy-year-old professor dressed in a black frock coat, lecturing a group of Jefferson Medical College students during a surgical procedure. Included among the group is a self-portrait of Eakins, who is seen at the right-hand side of the painting, next to the tunnel railing, with a white cuffed sleeve sketching or writing.
Description
Admired for its uncompromising realism, The Gross Clinic has an important place documenting the history of medicine. It honors the emergence of surgery as a respected medical practice and showcases the dedication and skill of medical professionals during complex procedures. The painting's detailed depiction of the surgical tools, the patient's wounds, and the expressions of the attendees adds to its impact and historical significance.
Location
The Gross Clinic is currently housed at the
Philadelphia Museum of Art and the
Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. This masterpiece serves as a testament to Eakins's artistic talent and his deep connection to his birthplace, Philadelphia.
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