'Theatre of Anatomy, Cambridge', print, London, England, 1815
Two visitors are inspecting the anatomy theatre at the University of Cambridge. A human skeleton stands above the dissecting table where two specimens are placed. In one of the jars are conjoined twins. Human anatomical specimens also line the shelves. As few bodies were available for dissection, demonstrations in theatres enabled a number of medical students to learn human anatomy from watching the same procedure. The print by Joseph Constantine Stadler (active 1780-1812) was taken from a drawing by Augustus Pugin (1765-1832). The illustration was one of 65 plates in A History of the University of Cambridge by William Combe (1742-1823), published in 1815.
Object number:
1982-575
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: print
Pictorial works produced by transferring images by means of a matrix such as a plate, block, or screen, using any of various printing processes. When emphasizing the individual printed image, use "impressions." Avoid the controversial expression "original prints," except in reference to discussions of the expression's use. If prints are neither "reproductive prints" nor "popular prints," use just "prints."
Glossary: anatomy
A branch of medical science concerned with the structure of living organisms.
Glossary: conjoined twins
Identical twins physically joined together at birth, formerly known as ‘Siamese’ twins. The location of the join can vary. Where possible, conjoined twins are often now separated through surgery.
Glossary: dissection
The cutting apart and separation of body tissues for the purposes of critical examination. Dissection of corpses is often carried out for the study of anatomy.