This rare mid-19th-century lithograph, titled "The Village Doctor," offers a charming and detailed glimpse into early American medical history. Published by Nathaniel Currier at his famous 152 Nassau St. location, this work predates his partnership with James Merritt Ives.

The scene captures the intimate relationship between a country doctor and his patient. The doctor leans in with a focused, paternal expression, while the young boy sits patiently. In the background, the artist has included rich details: rows of medicine bottles, a mortar and pestle, and a stuffed owl, which was a common Victorian symbol for the medical profession's vigilance and wisdom. The hand-coloring is delicate, with traditional period tones.

• Origin: New York, USA

• Publisher: Nathaniel Currier (152 Nassau Street, N.Y.)

• Age: Circa 1846

• Material: Lithograph on heavy paper, hand-painted watercolor accents.

• Condition: Fair to good vintage condition with expected age-toning and fading to the print. Notably, the print shows evidence of a past tear on the right-hand side (near the edge, close to the frame), which has been repaired with tape—visible as a vertical line or seam. Some water damage apparent at bottom.

Reference

Book Title: Currier & Ives: A Catalogue Raisonné > Author: Gale Research Company / Compiled by C. Carter Smith and Cathy Stein

Details: This print is officially cataloged as Gale Number: 6928 (or similar based on size variations). It is documented among the genre scenes of the mid-1840s produced at the Nassau Street shop.

Item dimensions: 6" tall × 8" wide × 0.5"deep  

Weight of item: 8.7 oz

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