Blogs

The RCP library is rich in early printed mathematical books with evidence of readers’ involvement with the text.

RCP fellows have always had broad interests, and many were experts in mathematics. A new display highlights their work in maths, and the presence of geometrical texts in the RCP library.

The Pharmacopoeia Londinensis is one of the most significant books in the history of the Royal College of Physicians. The first two editions are currently on display in the RCP Treasures Room.

The RCP museum has recently acquired the court dress of Sir William Withey Gull, one of Queen Victoria’s physicians. Storing these exciting items presented some interesting challenges.

A small book of 16th century medical for ordinary people reveals a lot about how books were handled and used in centuries past.

Royal physician William Harvey was present at the Battle of Edgehill during the English Civil War. King Charles I presented Harvey with a portrait of his son, Charles, as a gift.

A collection of papers in the RCP archives reveals the life, work and personality of physician Max Rosenheim (1908–1972).

Elaborate fine dining, including instructions on how to carve a calf’s head, fold a napkin into a turkey, or carve an apple into an elaborate decoration, is this month’s curator’s curiosity in the RCP museum.

William Harvey is famous for discovering the circulation of the blood around the body. He was also involved in 17th century investigations into allegations of witchcraft.

RCP fellows’ interests have always ranged far and wide. In the 17th century, Walter Charleton investigated the possible origins of the prehistoric monument Stonehenge.