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

This male figure has a removable torso to show the internal organs, including the heart, liver, stomach and intestines. The intestines are also removable. 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.

This female figure has removable torsos to show the internal organs, including the heart, liver, stomach and intestines. The intestines are also removable. She 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.

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.