Skull
Reproduction
Object numberRCSSC/P 262
Scientific nameHomo sapiens
CollectionSpecial collections
CategoryVisual works
Object nameSkull, Anatomical subjects (visual works), Oil paintings
TitleSkull
DescriptionPainting of human skull, attributed to William Cheselden, unsigned.
A human skull is shown resting on a shelf, three-quarter view to left, resting on a low red block
This painting was formerly the property of William Cheselden, and appears to be a preparatory work for his 'Osteographia', published in 1733. This painting is probably the one given to the College by John Gunning in 1816 and was presumably the property of his uncle, the surgeon John Gunning (1733-1798).
Production date 1733
Artist
Owner/user
Owner/user
presented
Physical Location
LocationNot on public display: contact museum for access conditions
Physical Information
Physical descriptionOil on canvas, 25cm by 30cm. In gilt wooden frame, glazed, 43cm by 48cm.
31SKULL (3/4) / by Cheselden HUNTERIAN
Dimensions
frame height: 430 mm
frame width: 480 mm
frame width: 480 mm
Bibliography
SourceLe Fanu 1960
Transcript262. Skull, three-quarter face to left, supported on a small red board. 25 x 30cm. Probably Clift 1820 No. 19: "A human skull, painted by William Cheselden, presented by John Gunning July 13th 1816"; Keith no. 31. Corresponds approximately with Osteographia plate 3, fig. 1.
SourceKeith 1930
Transcript31. Three quarter face view of skull, painted by Wm. Cheselden.
SourceClift 1820
NotesJohn Gunning was the nephew of John Gunning (1733-1798), a surgeon at St George's Hospital and former master of the Company of Surgeons.
Transcript19. A Human Skull. Pianted by Wm. Cheselden, Surgeon. Presented by John Gunning Esq., July 13th 1816.
