- Dr Michael Yafi suggests that examining art history could help medical professionals develop a less judgmental and more empathetic approach to obesity.
- Historically, corpulence was often viewed as a sign of prosperity, wealth, high social status and beauty, as evidenced in various artworks across different eras.
- Examples cited include Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa, whose subject may have been overweight due to pregnancy, and the ancient Venus of Willendorf, depicting exaggerated body forms.
- Dr Yafi highlighted that figures like the Greek god of wealth, Pluto, were often portrayed as obese, and many Ottoman emperors were depicted with abdominal obesity.
- Looking to the future, Dr Yafi predicts that contemporary art will likely feature “GLP-1 face,” reflecting the gaunt appearance caused by modern weight-loss medications.
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