Her skin is rosy, her hair is long and silky, her eyes half open, lips gently parted. Some wear pearls, others hold their blond braids in their delicate hands. The Anatomical Venus offers a glimpse inside her exquisite body like a beautiful instructional doll. Florence’s La Specola’s anatomical waxes are not quite dead, yet, splayed and gutted, they certainly can’t be alive. They occupy a middle place, a sort of suspended animation.

La Specola has the world’s largest collection of 17th century wax anatomical models, including three Anatomical Venus’ in their original glass coffins like a row of Snow Whites. The museum also has an incredible display of antique zoology specimens. For more on wax anatomical models, please visit Curious Expeditions.

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