Virtually explore the Royal College of Physicians (RCP) Museum exhibition, ‘A taste of one’s own medicine: medical satire at the RCP’, with an expert guide. Discover the enduring appeal of satirical images, and how doctors have been ridiculed, reprimanded and maligned for centuries.

While our museum building is closed throughout August for maintenance and conservation work we are delighted to offer this chance to virtually explore our exhibition. Graphic satire has been popular for hundreds of years. The RCP cares for a unique collection of medical satire prints from the mid-18th century to the 1980s, donated to us by doctors and members over our 500-year history.

In the past, as today, satirical images were closely tied to a particular time and place. They responded to contemporary events and were viewed by audiences who understood the circumstances of their creation, meaning they can now be difficult to understand.

From stereotypes of doctors to caricatures of individuals, satirical depictions of treatments to scathing attacks on the RCP, join an expert guide for a tour of ‘A taste of one’s own medicine’ to explore the complex and intriguing meanings behind the satirical prints in the RCP’s collection.

Book now with Art Tickets

This event is online only.

We would welcome a £5 donation from attendees to support the RCP Museum. Optional donations can be made as part of the ticket process.

You can visit the exhibition in person until 2 Dec 2022 as part of a free visit.