Wax is a truly incredible material; it can be moulded into virtually any shape to create the most intricate sculptures. The art of wax modelling goes back to ancient times, but particularly fascinating are the hauntingly lifelike anatomical models in wax (more formally known as anatomical ceroplastics). This artform, although it was considered craft in its time, arose from the combination of scientific interest in anatomy and inability to preserve corpses. The first waxen anatomical models were produced in the late 17th century. The practice was in its heyday in the 18th century and eventually declined throughout the 19th century. The endless sculptural possibilities with wax, its receptivity for colours, and its relative stability made it the ideal medium for recreating the subtleties of human anatomy. Here's my attempt from a few months ago to sculpt an ear from a clump of wax during a historical reconstruction class, next to an 18th-century anatomical 'Venus' from the natural history museum La Specola in Florence. Doing this historical reconstrucion really confronted me with the skill needed to create such lifelike models, deepening my respect for these historical artists significantly! If you'd like to read more about the fascinating topic of anatomical ceroplastics, I'd recommend Ballestriero, R. 2010. 'Anatomical models and wax Venuses: art masterpieces or scientific craft works?', Journal of Anatomy 216(2): 223-234. #technicalarthistory #wax #anatomy #art #material #materialproperties #reconstruction #historicalreconstructions #humanbody #incredible #skill #history #craft #sculpture #beautiful #materials #science #17thcentury #18thcentury #19thcentury #naturalhistory #medical #universityofamsterdam #utrechtuniversity #beeswax #color #colour #body #bodies #lifelike (bij Utrecht, Netherlands) https://www.instagram.com/p/Buo_uS1gTZO/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1esji8wljama6
