Female Anatomical Figure
Probably Italian, 18th century
Science Museum/SSPL A642635-6
Anatomical models carved from a single block of ivory were popular elite objects in seventeenth- and eighteenth-century Europe. The covering of the torso lifts off to reveal the internal organs. They demonstrate a knowledge of anatomy, but are not detailed enough to have been used for advanced teaching. Following the convention of anatomical representation, the female figures are always pregnant, emphasising their reproductive capacity.
