'Bless me what a Bump', print, London, England, 1824-1851

print. Phrenology - No.1. Sketches of Science. Bless me what a Bump!!! - [London] Pub[lished] by T. McLean 26 Haymarket, n.d. [1820-1830?]. etching, handcol; image 32.1x22.5cm to border, sheet trimmed to 34.5x23.5cm. Caricature: a woman examines a man's head. On table r., a phrenological head

A female phrenologist is examining the lumps and bumps of her male client’s head to determine his personality. A phrenological head, a reference guide to match the lumps and bumps to specific characteristics such as memory or friendliness, sits on the table. In the early 1800s, phrenology became popular with large numbers of people who were interested in self-improvement. However, many in the medical world dismissed it as quackery. The anonymous artist agreed with the medical world, producing this satirical print.