Skip to main content

The Philanthropic Pharmacist

November 18, 1844 (publication)
Honoré Daumier (French, 1808–1879) Printed by Aubert, 29 Place de la Bourse, Paris (1830s–1880s)

Even the respectable pharmacist can at times be a quack. Here a member of the profession recounts the lengths he has gone in pursuing the recipe for a salve that he is certain will outperform the rival Regnauld product. The caption reads (translated):

I have finally attained the goal of my dreams . . . That is to say, a fusion of wood lice and slugs . . . Since my primary concern is the relief of suffering and coughing humanity, despite the high cost of the raw materials, I am selling a box for only five francs . . . Half-a-box was enough to cure Mr. Ducantal senior!


Object Details

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.