Matthew Turner (physician) facts for kids

Matthew Turner (died 1788) was a clever doctor from Liverpool, England. He is known for a few important things that happened in the 1700s. He was a pioneer in using a special medicine called ether to help people during medical treatments. He even wrote a small book, called a pamphlet, about how to use it safely.

Turner was also thought to be the writer of a very important book published in 1782. This book, titled Answer to Dr. Priestley's Letters to a Philosophical Unbeliever, explored big ideas about philosophy and belief. It was one of the first books in Britain to openly discuss these kinds of deep thoughts.

Connecting Great Minds

Matthew Turner was good at bringing talented people together. He introduced two very important people: Josiah Wedgwood and Thomas Bentley. This meeting happened in Liverpool, and it led to a strong friendship and a very successful business. Together, Wedgwood and Bentley created the famous Wedgwood pottery, which is still well-known today for its beautiful designs.

Science and Art

Turner was also friends with an artist named Joseph Wright of Derby. Wright was famous for his paintings that showed scientific experiments and new discoveries. When Wright was painting his famous work, The Alchemist Discovering Phosphorus in 1771, he asked Matthew Turner for scientific advice. Turner's knowledge helped the artist make the painting accurate and realistic. This painting can now be seen at the Derby Museum and Art Gallery.