Historical information

The cartoon was drawn by John Nathan, one of the final year students in the first class to graduate with the diploma of Licentiate of Optometric Science from the Australian College of Optometry. His father was Bertram Nathan who played important roles in obtaining registration of optometrists in 1934 and on the Council of the College. John was to become Director of Studies from 1950 to 1964 and President of the College from 1969 to 1978. He also paints in oils.

Significance

This cartoon is significant to the Australian College of Optometry as a piece of memorabilia from the class of 1944. It is one of only two drawings of optometrists in the Kett collection.

Physical description

Framed ink on paper cartoon drawing of final year Optometrical Science students of 1944 in Melbourne. The characters are depicted playing in an optometric consulting room. It is headed 'Final Year Optometrical Science 1944' and at the lower edge are the names of the students 'John Nathan, Tony "Craniclaw" Douglas, Vans Ovenden and Doug Allen'. Signed by the artist 'John Nathan'.This cartoon drawing depicts final year Optometry students in a contemporary consulting room of 1944. They are shown in typical optometrists' attire of dark trousers, side-buttoning short white coats and PD ruler in the breast pocket. The room has an electric instrument stand, hydraulic patient chair and internally illuminated test chart. The drawing shows the artist's name 'John Nathan' and is mounted in a black frame.

Inscriptions & markings

Signed by the artist 'John Nathan'