François Carlo Antommarchi

French physician known for attending Napoleon Bonaparte

François Carlo Antommarchi (1780 – 1838) was a French physician best known for being the personal physician to Napoleon Bonaparte during the last years of his life on Saint Helena. Antommarchi's work extended beyond his service to Napoleon, as he also contributed to the field of anatomy and was involved in the creation of the death mask of Napoleon.

Early Life and Education

François Carlo Antommarchi was born in 1780 in Morsiglia, Corsica, which was then part of the Kingdom of France. He pursued his medical studies in Italy, attending the University of Pisa and later the University of Florence, where he developed a keen interest in anatomy and surgery.

Career

Service to Napoleon

In 1818, Antommarchi was appointed as the personal physician to Napoleon Bonaparte, who was in exile on the island of Saint Helena. Antommarchi arrived on the island in September 1819, where he took over the medical care of the former emperor from Dr. Barry Edward O'Meara.

Napoleon on Saint Helena

During his time on Saint Helena, Antommarchi faced numerous challenges, including the difficult living conditions and the political tensions surrounding Napoleon's captivity. Despite these challenges, he remained dedicated to his patient, documenting Napoleon's declining health and ultimately attending to him during his final days.

Napoleon's Death Mask

After Napoleon's death on May 5, 1821, Antommarchi was involved in the creation of the famous death mask of Napoleon. This mask has been the subject of much historical interest and debate, as it provides a tangible connection to the former emperor.

Napoleon's death mask

Contributions to Anatomy

Antommarchi's contributions to the field of anatomy are notable. He published several works on anatomical studies, including detailed drawings and descriptions of human anatomy. His work was recognized for its precision and attention to detail, contributing to the advancement of medical knowledge in the 19th century.

Annotated anatomical drawing by Antommarchi

Later Life and Legacy

After leaving Saint Helena, Antommarchi continued his medical career in various parts of Europe and Latin America. He eventually settled in Santiago, Chile, where he continued to practice medicine until his death in 1838.

Antommarchi's legacy is closely tied to his association with Napoleon, but his contributions to medicine, particularly in the field of anatomy, are also significant. His work remains a part of the historical record of medical advancements in the 19th century.

Related Pages

• Napoleon Bonaparte
• Saint Helena
• Death mask
• Anatomy