Table 67: Dissection of the Forearm

Anatomy

The 67th Table illustrates one stage in the process of dissecting the forearm. This particular stage highlights the muscles and sinew that connect from the elbow to the palm and fingers of the hand. The forearm appears to be separated at the elbow joint, which is concealed under heavy white drapery. The different muscles that attach to the fingers are pulled and kept tight by an interesting tool; beside the arm is a wooden box that had two rows of holes in it, in which a thin pole is inserted. The sinew is drawn up above the pole to demonstrate not only where the muscles connect on the hand, but also to demonstrate how the body reacts when the muscles are pulled (simulating tension and flexing), versus when they are let loose (simulating relaxed muscles). The scene is presented on a wooden plank, not very different from a cutting board.

Gerard de Lairesse (artist), Peter and Philip van Gunst (engravers)

The widow of Joannes van Someren, the heirs of Joannes van Dyk, Henry Boom and widow of Theodore Boom

1685

Anatomia Humani Corporis

Govard Bidloo

Public Access (U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2004)

Ontleding des Menschelyken Lichaams

Anatomia Humani Corporis

Jpeg

Latin

Dutch

Medical text

1685

Anatomia Humani Corporis

Ontleding des Menschelyken Lichaams

62.5 x 36 cm

Copperplate engraving on paper

Bidloo, Govard. "67th Table." In Anatomia Humani Corporis. Amsterdam, for the widow of Joannes van Someren, the heirs of Joannes van Dyk, Henry Boom and widow of Theodore Boom, 1685.

Artists

Medical practitioners

Medical students