Two ivory anatomical figures, female and male, France, 1701-1800

Two ivory anatomical figures, female and male, in original case Two ivory anatomical figures, female and male, in original case

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Two ivory anatomical figures, female and male, in original case
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Two ivory anatomical figures, female and male, in original case
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Two ivory anatomical figures, female and male, in original case

Both these female and male figures have removable torsos to show the internal organs, including the heart, liver, stomach and intestines. The intestines are also removable. The female figure is pregnant and a foetus is shown. This is typical of female anatomical models of this type. Such figures are usually displayed in boxes or on stands that are modelled to look like beds.

The level of anatomical detail is limited but gives a basic layout of the main organs. As such it is likely that the model was used to teach lay people about basic human anatomy. They may possibly have been used by midwives to provide reassurance for pregnant women and to teach young married couples about anatomy and pregnancy.

Details

Category:
Anatomy & Pathology
Collection:
Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
Object Number:
A641074
Materials:
ivory, thread, wood, leather, paper, fabric, metal (unknown), silk and complete
Measurements:
overall: 0.908 kg
male model: 195 mm x 60 mm,
overall (case closed): 90 mm x 252 mm x 175 mm, 0.442 kg
overall (female figure, including couch): 50 mm x 69 mm x 227 mm, .224 kg
overall (male figure, including couch): 47 mm x 71 mm x 227 mm, .214 kg
overall (case open): 217 mm x 252 mm x 252 mm, 0.442 kg
type:
anatomical figure