This is not a macabre depiction of the Grim Reaper but rather %22Dr. Beaky of Rome%22 featured in a colored engraving by Paul Furst created around 1721. It portrays a %22plague doctor%22 in France. During the Black Plague%2C physicians of the time wore a special outfit with a brimmed hat%2C long coat and raven-like bird%27s beak mask with the belief it would protect them from airborne illnesses. The importance of masks continues in our own time.
This is not a macabre depiction of the Grim Reaper but rather %22Dr. Beaky of Rome%22 featured in a colored engraving by Paul Furst created around 1721. It portrays a %22plague doctor%22 in France. During the Black Plague%2C physicians of the time wore a special outfit with a brimmed hat%2C long coat and raven-like bird%27s beak mask with the belief it would protect them from airborne illnesses. The importance of masks continues in our own time.