Musée Fragonard d'Alfort

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Musée Fragonard d'Alfort is a museum of anatomical oddities and curiosities located in Maisons-Alfort, a suburb of Paris, France. The museum is part of the École nationale vétérinaire d'Alfort (National Veterinary School of Alfort), one of the oldest veterinary schools in the world.

History

The museum was established in 1766 by Honoré Fragonard, a pioneering anatomist and cousin of the famous painter Jean-Honoré Fragonard. Honoré Fragonard was appointed as the first professor of anatomy at the veterinary school and began creating anatomical preparations for educational purposes. These preparations, known as "écorchés," are preserved specimens of dissected animals and humans, showcasing the intricate details of their anatomy.

Collections

The Musée Fragonard d'Alfort houses a unique collection of anatomical specimens, including:

• Écorchés: These are preserved anatomical models of humans and animals, meticulously dissected to reveal muscles, blood vessels, and other internal structures.
• Teratological specimens: These are specimens of animals with congenital abnormalities, providing insight into developmental biology and veterinary pathology.
• Osteological collections: These include skeletons of various animal species, used for comparative anatomy studies.
• Historical veterinary instruments: The museum also displays a range of historical tools and instruments used in veterinary medicine over the centuries.

Notable Exhibits

One of the most famous exhibits in the museum is the "Horseman of the Apocalypse," an écorché of a man on a horse, both meticulously dissected to reveal their musculature and internal structures. This exhibit is a testament to the skill and artistry of Honoré Fragonard and remains a highlight for visitors.

Educational Role

The museum serves as an important educational resource for students of veterinary medicine, anatomy, and related fields. It provides a historical perspective on the development of anatomical science and veterinary practice. The detailed anatomical preparations offer invaluable insights into the structure and function of various animal species.

Visiting Information

The Musée Fragonard d'Alfort is open to the public, offering guided tours and educational programs. It is located on the campus of the École nationale vétérinaire d'Alfort, which is easily accessible from central Paris.

See Also

• École nationale vétérinaire d'Alfort
• Honoré Fragonard
• Jean-Honoré Fragonard
• Anatomy
• Veterinary medicine