Ivory model of an ear, used for teaching, possibly 18th century

This model can be broken down into six component pieces, each showing a different section of the ear. These include the cochlea and the semi-circular canal – although unfortunately the ear drum is missing. Once constructed, the model is held together with a number of ivory pegs.

Anatomical models like this were used to teach medical students. As the models were larger than life size, the structure of the ear was easier to understand.