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Anatomical representation of distinguished male

Creator: Jan Wandelaar
Offered by: Peter van Os Antiques & Fine Art

Description
Frame
In rich frame covered by Museum glass.
Frame dimensions: 92 x 72 cm

Jan Wandelaar (1690-1759)

Jan Wandelaar (14 April 1690 – 26 March 1759) was a notable Dutch painter, illustrator, and engraver from the 18th century. Born in Amsterdam, Wandelaar trained under prominent artists such as Jacob Folkema, Gilliam van der Gouwen, and Gerard de Lairesse. His early work included anatomical illustrations for the renowned anatomist Frederik Ruysch.

Wandelaar is perhaps best known for his collaboration with Bernhard Siegfried Albinus, a prominent anatomist. Together, they produced the “Tabulae sceleti et musculorum corporis humani” (1747), a series of detailed anatomical illustrations that set new standards for precision and artistic beauty. One of the most famous illustrations from this work features the rhinoceros Clara in the background, showcasing Wandelaar’s ability to blend scientific accuracy with artistic creativity.

Botanicall illustrations
In addition to his anatomical work, Wandelaar also contributed to botanical illustrations, engraving images for Sébastien Vaillant’s “Botanicon Parisiense” (1727) and Linnaeus’s “Hortus Cliffortianus” (1737). His versatility extended to portraiture, where he created drawings of notable figures, including Amsterdam’s mayor, which were later engraved by Jacob Houbraken.

Wandelaar’s influence extended to his students, including Pieter Lyonet and Abraham Delfos, who continued the tradition of detailed and precise illustration. He spent his later years in Leiden, where he continued to work until his death in 1759.

Publication Anatomical Atlas
Bernard Siegfried Albinus (1697-1770) published his 'Tabulae Sceleti et Musculorum Corporis Humani' in 1747, the most ambitious anatomical atlas of the eighteenth century.

The ideal human
The atlas is illustrated by the draftsman and engraver Jan Wandelaar (1690-1759). Both the skeletal and muscular men were supposed to be images of the 'homo perfectus'. Or rather: the ideal person.

Teyler's Museum
The complete atlas can be seen in the Teylers Museum in Haarlem, The Netherlands.

More Information

Documentation:	Documented elsewhere (similar item)
Origin:	Netherlands
Period:	18th Century
Materials:	Original antique copper engraving
Condition:	Good.
Creation Date:	1747
Styles / Movements:	Other
Dealer Reference #:	23244
Incollect Reference #:	707169

Dimensions

W.	18.9 in;	H.	21.26 in;
W.	48 cm;	H.	54 cm;

Message from Seller:

Peter van Os Antiques & Fine Art in Oirschot offers a diverse collection of 17th-20th century paintings, modern art, and rare antiques. For expert appraisals and inquiries, contact Peter at antiques@petervanos.com or call +31653106541.