Bonhams 1793 : A fine life-size intricately-detailed anatomical model, devised and created by the French physician Dr. Louis Thomas Jerome Auzoux, -

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19 Apr 2011 13:00 BST London, Knightsbridge
Scientific Instruments
Back to auction 19034

A fine life-size intricately-detailed anatomical model, devised and created by the French physician Dr. Louis Thomas Jerome Auzoux, -

the base and model retailed by The Medical Supply Association, London, -
circa 1882,
the standing male model, papier-mâché with gesso superstructure, presented with the muscle and vein layout in their entirety, head with full opening face section, removable arms, torso cover with integral ribs, opening to reveal full organ layout, each removing for full inspection, left leg also removing, the whole with exceptional detailed painting and applied cord runs for veins and nerves, all areas labelled with number system in addition to titles in French, the right leg slotted into cast iron tripod base with swept supports, partially inset to triangular pollard oak base with wide moulded edge, on small brass castors, bearing the maker's plaque, (brain and inner upper left leg section missing) - 80in. (203cm) high

Sold for £16,800 inc. premium

Footnotes

Reference:
BMA News, Saturday June 3, 2006, 'Edinburgh's Papier-mâché Man'

As researched and noted in the above publication, it is unlikely more than a handful of these Auzoux models were made or indeed survive intact today.

The attention to detail throughout the model is outstanding. From tip to toe, and even at close proximity, viewers are shown as close to the colour, size and texture of the various body parts as possible to a real-life body. One can only wonder what level of research the constructors went to in order to fully create it.

This example offered, until recently, was still being used to teach and inform members of the medical community.

Category: Collectibles / Scientific Instruments

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