Anatomical Head

myminifactory

This striking anatomical head of Italian origins likely hails from Naples and dates back to the 18th century. The practice of creating intricate wax models originated in Italy's prestigious university centers, with Florence and Bologna at its forefront. Noted artists like Lodovico Cardi 'Il Cigoli' (1559-1613) and Gaetano Zumbo (1656-1701) crafted pioneering prototypes that paved the way for a new era of anatomical wax production. As the 18th century progressed, the creation and use of these detailed waxes skyrocketed, serving as essential tools for medical professionals to hone their skills. Bologna's esteemed university remained at the vanguard of this movement, producing master craftsmen like Ercole Lelli (1702-66) and Giovanni Manzolini (1700-55). Their exceptional work inspired a new generation of sculptors in Florence, who were driven by the vision of surgeon Giuseppe Galletti. This particular head appears to have been designed for a thought-provoking vanitas display, possibly housed within a cabinet of curiosities. A similar yet non-Italian head can be found at the Wellcome Collection in London (inv. no. 240/1942). The banner's inscription quotes Andreas Vesalius' seminal treatise on human anatomy, first published in 1543. The banner reads: DE HUMANIS CORPORIS FABRICA (on the fabric of the human body) This exceptional piece of art was part of Sotheby's OLD MASTER SCULPTURE & WORKS OF ART auction held at New Bond Street, London on July 6, 2017. Lot 149 Anatomical Head predicted a price range of £10,000-£15,000 but ultimately sold for £22,500.