Reproduction
Object numberRCSHM/D 816.5
Scientific nameHomo sapiens
CollectionCollege Museum
CategoryDry preparations
Object nameHead, Facial nerve, Mounted dry bone and tissue
DescriptionThe superficial nerves and arteries of the face and neck, by Joseph Swan. This specimen was prepared by Joseph Swan (1791-1874) and was illustrated in his definitive work on the nerves of the face and neck.
This dry preparation of the dissected superficial nerves of the face is doubly interesting. It was prepared by Joseph Swan (1791-1874). Swan's modest impact on the field of operative practice is balanced by his lasting contribution to neuroanatomy. His magnum opus was his 'Demonstration of the Nerves of the Human Body', published in 1830. Swan had previously established his reputation as an anatomist by winning the Jacksonian Prize twice (in 1817 and 1819) and the College's triennial prize in 1822 and 1825.
Although Swan trained in London as a pupil of Henry Cline, much of his important early research was completed in Lincoln where he served as surgeon to the County Hospital from 1814 to 1827. The lack of opportunity for dissection was said to have been eased by the annual delivery of a 'Christmas hamper' from colleagues in London containing 'a well-selected human subject'.
Perhaps because of the paucity of material Swan devoted considerable energies to devising new methods of preparation. He used solutions of oxymuriate of mercury (mercuric chloride) to preserve specimens which he then dissected, dried and varnished. Swan's technique was probably based on the work of the eccentric naturalist and explorer Charles Waterton (1782-1865) of Wakefield. Although the use of mercuric chloride was successful for the long-term preservation of animal skins it was rather less effective for anatomical use. Of over 100 dry specimens presented by Swan to the College this is the only one which survives.
Preparator
presented
Physical Location
Location
Not on public display: contact museum for access conditions
Physical Information
Physical descriptionDry mounted preparation under rectilinear glass cover on black wooden base. Dimensions including cover and base: 288mm h x 253mm w x 160mm d.
Materialglass (material)
Homo
Dimensions
whole height: 288 mm
whole width: 253 mm
whole depth: 160 mm
whole width: 253 mm
whole depth: 160 mm
