Ant Early 19th c. “A.W. Tiska Scientific Masseur” Male Masseuse Rare Trade Sign For Sale

This is a niceAntique Early 19th Century “A.W. Tiska Scientific Masseur” Male Masseuse Rare Reverse Painted Trade Sign. This piece is in pretty nice condition with considering it’s age with wear to the paint, nicks, cracks and general wear that can all be seen in the pics and everything ships exactly as shown. The dimensions of this piece are 25 1/2” long x 12” wide x 1/2” in depth from the wall.
This is a very rare trade sign for Dr. A. W. Tiska who was a scientific masseur or male masseuse / chiropractic doctor working in Alton Illinois US in the early 1900’s where his practice was usually filled by women. This is a very rare reverse painted Trade sign he used in his practice and is considered a piece of history. He was likely an early member of normalizing massage work which before 1894 had been considered a obtuse practice with sexual implications. It is likely he was involved in the early destigmatization of the work we consider to be the modern day massage work / chiropractor. An obituary for the doctor from a newspaper clipping has been included in the final photo.
In 1894 the Society of Trained Masseuses (STM) formed in response to massage scandals published by the British Medical Journal (BMJ). The Society\'s founders acted to legitimise massage, which had become sullied by its association with prostitution. This study analyses the discourses that influenced the founders of the Society and reflects upon the social and political conditions that enabled the STM to emerge and prosper. The founders established a clear practice model for massage which effectively regulated the sensual elements of contact between therapist and patient. Massage practices were regulated through clearly defined curricula, examinations and the surveillance of the Society\'s members. A biomechanical model of physical rehabilitation was adopted to enable masseuses to view the body as a machine rather than as a sensual being.Keep in mind the shipping price also covers handling fees, packaging materials & time, not just postage.See our store for thousands of our other items.A12

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