Art Funded by you
A quack doctor treating a patient
David Henry Friston, 1853–1869

The painting depicts a 'quack' doctor attempting to cure a patient by means of a Cylinder Electrostatic or Friction Machine. The machine was made during latter half of the 19th century and used by 'quacks' for curing mental diseases of all kinds.
More information
Title of artwork, date
A quack doctor treating a patient, 1853–1869
Date supported
1979
Medium and material
Oil on canvas
Dimensions
64 x 88 cm
Grant
750
Total cost
3000
Content note: This object record is part of our archive and has not been updated since it was first published. It may contain inaccurate information or outdated language. Please get in touch if you think this record should be amended.

Get a National Art Pass and explore Museum of the Home
You'll see more art and your membership will help museums across the UK
National Art Pass offers available at Museum of the Home
10% off in shop
10% discount in the shop
Expires: 1 Jan 2026
Art Funded by you FAQs
Why is this object record marked 'archive'?
Where can I see this work of art? Is it on display?
What is Art Fund's purpose?
How is Art Fund funded?
What type of funding do you offer?
What does the acquisition grants programme support and who can apply?
How many works of art has Art Fund helped museums to acquire?
I’m a curator/researcher/arts professional and would like to find out more about this work, how do I get in touch?
I’m a journalist and would like to contact Art Fund about this work, how do I get in touch?
I would like to donate a work of art to a museum. What do I need to do?
I'd like to leave a gift to Art Fund in my will. How can I do this?
Contact us
If you have a question about a work of art in our archive, please contact the Programmes team. We’ll be happy to answer your enquiry.