The Fisher's latest exhibition, Vesalius at 500, has officially opened. Commemorating the birth of pioneering anatomist Andreas Vesalius (1514–1564), the exhibition features a dazzling array of early anatomical works, including a rare annotated edition of Vesalius’ influential De humani corporis fabrica, or the Fabrica as it is commonly known. Fabrica is widely regarded as the cornerstone for the study and teaching of human anatomy, as has been celebrated for its splendid woodcuts that introduced art into the sphere of anatomy. The rare 1555 edition at the Fisher Library was annotated by Vesalius himself for an anticipated third edition that was never printed. Since no additional edition was ever published, this annotated text stands as Vesalius’ final word on his classic work.

According to the exhibition's curator, Philip Oldfield, the History of Science and Medicine Librarian at the Fisher, Fabrica "set the standard for all future anatomical illustration. The illustrations werestill being copied and imitated 200 years after their first appearance."

The exhibition, which features more than 35 anatomical books on display, including the influential 15^th century Anatomia by Mondino, runs through the summer. It brings together the Fisher Library’s world-class collection of early anatomical books, including the first edition of Fabrica and the German edition of Vesalius’ Epitome, and other important and rarely-displayed books generously provided by private collectors, including the Latin edition of the Epitome (on loan from Dr. Eugene Flamm), and a Vesalius-annotated copy of Guenther’s Institutiones anatomicae, the only other book known to have been annotated by Vesalius (on loan from Stuart Rose).

The curator will be providing free guided tours of the exhibition the first Thursday of every month at 6:00 pm. The next two tours are scheduled for July 3 and August 7.

Below is a video narrated by Philip Oldfield that provides a background on Vesalius and the exhibition. It can also be viewed on the Fisher's YouTube Channel.

Vesalius at 500 now open!