A rare carved ivory anatomical model of a pregnant lady,
In the manner of Stephan Zick (c.1639-1715).
German, late 17th century.
The reclining figure with articulated arms, a section of torso removable to reveal internal organs and foetus, the head resting on an ivory pillow with carved lace surround, on a rectangular wood and cloth bed.
Measures 23cm x 7cm x 5cm.
This ivory carving has a certificate for a pre-1918 item of outstandingly high artistic, cultural or historical value, certificate number: 52XXIYPX.
Female ivory anatomical models of this type were popular in the 17th and 18th centuries and were almost always shown as pregnant, like this example, which is lying on an ebony bed. When the torso is removed the internal organs such as the heart, lungs and liver can be seen.
This type of figure was probably used to instruct lay people about basic human anatomy, particularly related to pregnancy. It is unlikely that these figures would have been used to instruct medical students or midwives due to the simplistic anatomical detail. It may possibly have been used by midwives to provide reassurance for pregnant women and to teach young married couples about anatomy and pregnancy. Models like this are sometimes found in pairs, male and female, and the female figure is always shown as pregnant.
Models like this were hugely important to educate non-medically minded people of the human anatomy in a time when medical knowledge was progressing in leaps and bounds out of the theories of the Middle Ages and embracing the period of Enlightenment, moving away from the teachings of medicine used since the Ancient World.
Anatomical models like this can be found in major international institutions, the most comprehensive group is housed in the collection of the Science Museum Group, London.
Similar examples seldom come up for auction, an anatomical model cataloged as attributed to Stephan Zick was sold by Christies in November 2020 for £40,000 included buyers premium:
https://onlineonly.christies.com/s/finch-cos-cabinet-curiosities/german-ivory-anatomical-model-pregnant-woman-81/102639
Another example in the same sale, catalogued as in the manner of Stephan Zick was sold for £18,750 including buyers premium:
https://onlineonly.christies.com/s/finch-cos-cabinet-curiosities/german-ivory-anatomical-model-pregnant-woman-81/102639
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