O.G. Mason
1880-1885 (ca)
C.R., age 20, U.S.: Acne

Collotype, hand-coloured
Private collection of John Wood
THE PATIENT was of fair complexion, with a naturally delicate skin. A marked flushing of the face ensued upon mental excitement or slight external irritation.
 
[George Henry Fox (1846-1937), American pioneer in dermatology]
 
Poem
 
If you would understand this classic face,
forget youth's clumsy angers, its acne
and fears. Then you will see the sculpted grace
of ancient days, austere in its beauty.
 
John Wood
 
Source
 
John Wood Endurance and Suffering: Narratives of Disease in the 19th Century (Edition Galerie Vevais, 2009) [Note: First edition is dated March 2007 but was published in October 2008.]
 
LL/37728