Squelettes et Ecorches

Domenico del Barbiere

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of anatomical figures displaying skeletal and muscular systems alongside mythical or allegorical elements. The image features two standing skeletons; one at the left and one towards the right. Next to the left skeleton stands a muscular figure with a crown of laurels. On the right, another muscular figure stands, turned away to reveal its muscular and vascular details. The left skeleton is also holding hands with a partly hidden skeletal figure. Below these figures is a scene depicting a collection of objects and busts. The use of line work and shading emphasizes the contours and forms of the anatomical structures.