Peter Parker Collection

Artist: Lam Qua (1801-1860)

Medium: Oil on Canvas

Case Study from Peter Parker's Journal

Oct. 16, 1844. "Yang Kang, age 35, of Sinhwui, latterly a beggar in Maco, had a tumor on the right side of his face, which commenced in the situation of the parotid gland, measuring 2 feet and 6 inches in circumference, weighing when extirpated 6 1/2 catties, equal to 8 2/3 pounds. It commenced ten years since. Portions of the tissue cut harder than the rest, and approached a cartilaginous or semiosseous structure. the mingling hope of success and fears of the worst posible consequences excite and devout and sincere intercessions at the throne of grace in his behalf, and an ernest use of means to prepare him for whatever might be the divine allotment. He was told that others fervently entreated the most high God to save him, but that it was desired that he himself should pray to Him who alone would succeed the means to be used. This patient became the porter of the hospital."