The importance of anatomical models cannot be overstated in the education of medical professionals, but these learning tools have not always been so… clinical. Behold, the “Anatomical Venus,” idealized female forms first popularized in 18th century Europe, intended for the education of both medical students and a curious public (men and women were most often segregated for viewings). The figures were usually made of wax, which is malleable and conducive to bright colors and the “ladies” were often adorned with jewelry, ribbons and elaborate makeup. – via Dangerous Minds.
From La Specola museum, Florence, Italy, 18th century. By Clemente Susini.
From La Specola museum. Florence, Italy, 1818
From La Specola museum, Florence, Italy, no date given.
Late 19th century
From the “Josephinum Museum” of the Medical University of Vienna, Austria. Late 18th century
Jules Talrich, Paris, late 19th century.
Celebrating the strange and the shadowy, the damned and unseen 
These are truly beautiful! I’d love to have one.
Dito! 🙂