Nicolaas Tulp Performing a Dissection – 19th-Century Hand-Colored Lithograph

About this sheet

Nicolaas Tulp Performing a Dissection – 19th-Century Hand-Colored Lithograph

This 19th-century hand-colored lithograph portrays Nicolaas Pietersz. Tulp, a prominent Dutch physician, magistrate, and scholar of the seventeenth century. Born in 1593, Tulp is best known today as the central figure in Rembrandt’s famous painting The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Tulp. As a member of the Amsterdam Guild of Surgeons, he was widely respected for his scientific insight and civic leadership, eventually becoming mayor of Amsterdam.

In this scene, Tulp is shown demonstrating a dissection, seated beside a cadaver, with a surgical tool in hand and a calm, authoritative expression. The moment captures the spirit of Enlightenment inquiry and the evolving understanding of anatomy in the Dutch Republic. The setting is understated, focusing attention on the figure and the act of scientific teaching.

The lithograph was drawn by Herman ten Kate and printed by P W van de Weijer in Utrecht around 1850. The image is printed via lithography and finished with hand-applied color, creating depth and atmosphere while maintaining clarity of form.

The condition is good, with strong definition, rich tone, and minimal signs of aging.

Framing suggestion:
This work suits a classic dark wood or ebony frame. Use archival matting in soft grey or ivory and UV-protective glass to preserve the subtle tones and detailing. A museum-style frame can highlight the academic subject matter.

Keywords:
Nicolaas Tulp portrait, antique Dutch anatomy print, 19th-century hand-colored lithograph, Dutch medical history, surgeon dissection art, Rembrandt anatomy lesson connection, Herman ten Kate drawing, Utrecht lithography, Golden Age medicine, historical science artwork, Dutch Enlightenment figure, collectible physician portrait, Dutch civic leader print, medical education history