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COLLECTION
Austria, 1784
The Josephinum is the owner of one of the world's largest collections of anatomical wax models from the 18th century, commissioned by the Austrian Emperor Joseph II. The order of 1,192 pieces was made between 1781 and 1784 and fulfilled in Florence under the supervision of the physicist, anatomist and naturalist Felice Fontana, physician and anatomist Paolo Mascagni, and modeller Clemente Susini. Today, the unique collection is on display at the Josephinum and includes full-length models as well as individual body parts, organs and systems. The exhibits are stored in original vitrines of rosewood and Venetian glass.
MUSEUM
Austria, Vienna
The Josephinum in Vienna is a renowned medical history museum situated in the historical building of the Medical-Surgical Joseph's Academy established in 1785 under Joseph II, Holy Roman Emperor. Today, the museum houses the collections of the Medical University of Vienna, celebrated for its one of the world's largest anatomical wax models collection, which were crafted between 1784 and 1786 by Florence masters including renowned Clemente Susini. These models provide detailed insights into human anatomy and have been pivotal in medical education. After comprehensive renovations, the Josephinum reopened its doors in September 2022, offering visitors a blend of historical artifacts and modern exhibitions that chronicle over 650 years of medical history.
Articles
Wax anatomical models designed to train physicians and educate the public were once innovative educational teaching aids. Some world-class museums including La Specola in Pisa, Josephinum in Vienna, Palazzo Poggi in Bologna, Science Museum in London, Semmelweis Museum in Budapest, Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle in Paris are proud of their collections. This amazing craft, combining art and science, anatomy and chemistry, practical skill and theoretical knowledge, which stood at the forefront of innovation in the 17th and 18th centuries, originated and flourished in Northern Italy