Five hundred years ago, Andreas Vesalius was born in Brussels, Belgium. He came to be known as the Father of Anatomy, and his seven volumes entitled De humani corporis fabrica libri septem (Latin for “On the fabric of the human body in seven books”) are legendary for their attention to anatomical detail. These volumes are illustrated with woodcuts that not only detail dissection but also illustrate the anatomical theater of the 16th century at the University of Padua. Over the centuries, these woodcuts have evolved with the artists producing them.
On February 27, the HS/HSL was delighted to unveil a wonderful interpretation of Vesalius by noted Baltimore Realist artist, Joseph Sheppard. The 5 foot by 4 foot painting, donated by Mr. and Mrs. Henry A. Rosenberg, Jr., depicts Vesalius in the anatomical theater at Padua, performing a dissection before a large audience. The painting’s ceremonial unveiling featured remarks by HS/HSL Executive Director, M.J. Tooey, UMB President Dr. Jay Perman, Mr. Rosenberg, and Mr. Sheppard. Mr. Sheppard’s remarks were a mini master class in Renaissance Art and his interpretation of symbolism within the painting. The large painting, with its riot of color, can be seen on the fifth floor of the Library as you exit the elevator. As one of the guests remarked, “It looks as though that wall space was always waiting for that painting.”