Antique Plaster Model of Human Skin German Hygiene Museum Dresden around 1940

This extraordinary anatomical relief model of human skin is an authentic collector's item from around 1940. This detailed teaching aid was manufactured by the renowned German Hygiene Museum in Dresden, which was world-famous for its high-quality anatomical models. The model shows a complex cross-section of the skin layers in life size and is made of plaster, hand-painted, and firmly mounted on a gray wooden board. There are 2 original stickers on the surface: one with the distinctive eye logo and the inscription "Deutsches Hygiene-Museum Dresden" as well as a blue sticker with the digit 1.

The antique model impresses with its scientific accuracy and the sculptural representation of anatomical details. Two large hair follicles with sebaceous glands (papillae) in the tissue are clearly recognizable. The fine hand-painting highlights the different layers of the epidermis, dermis, and subcutis, which are additionally numbered for educational purposes.

The object is in authentic antique condition with a matured patina that underlines its historical value. As seen in the detailed photos, there are cracks in the plaster along the edges towards the wooden board. These are age-related, and the plaster model is still firmly attached to the board. A rare find from an old Austrian school archive. With its dimensions of approx. 35.5 x 38.5 cm (wooden board) and approx. 31 x 34 cm (model), this hand-painted vintage relief is a striking highlight for any sophisticated cabinet of curiosities collection or as a subject-specific decorative object in the rooms of a medical practice. An ideal piece for lovers of historical natural sciences and museum-quality exhibits; small chips, dents, superficial abrasion, old storage marks; overall beautiful original condition; signs of use appropriate for its age (see photos).