Between 1857 and 1859 Regent Street portrait photographer Henry Hering made several visits to Bethlem Royal Hospital, then at St George’s Fields, Southwark. He photographed several patients on the general wards as well as in its criminal department. It is likely that he was attempting to document what was then known as the “physiognomy of insanity”, though no record of his intentions has been kept. Whatever his purpose, the enduring result is a striking record of institutional life in mid-Victorian Britain.

At that time Bethlem Royal Hospital was already over 600 years old. Far from the Hogarthian images and the stereotyped Bedlam, Bethlem’s treatment was very humane. People with mental disorders were treated with perhaps less stigma than they are today. Their living conditions were significantly better than those of Victorian London outside, with an emphasis on fresh air, clean water, well-lit corridors, gardens, and respect for patients. The Hospital had deliberately moved to Southwark to get away from the crowded metropolis. 

Patients admitted to the Hospital were presumed curable. Although the methods were very much simpler that those of today, the results could be very striking. Included in the exhibition are examples of patient recovery.

The exhibition consists of 20 - 40 photographs owned by the Trustees of the Bethlem Art and History Collections Trust, mounted on boards each 72 x 50 cm.  The exhibition can be used as either a stand-alone example of portrait photography in the early days of the camera, or as a backdrop to educational programmes. A full list with insurance values is available by e-mail.

The exhibition is offered free of hire charge to further the Trustees’ policy of making images of mental illness available to a wider audience. Borrowers are required to arrange packing and transport and nail-to-nail insurance. Associated shop merchandise is available on a sale or return basis. The Trust’s Education and Outreach Officer is available for advice on programmes for schools.