Human Skull With A Painted Phrenological Map, 19th Century

A testament to the history of medicine and science in the 19th century, this object illustrates the development and dissemination of the phrenological theories of Franz Joseph Gall and his successors, most notably Spurzheim. This human skull features a phrenological map painted directly onto the cranium: black lines delineate various cerebral zones, while red numbers identify specific regions. The numbering is repeated symmetrically on both sides of the skull. This theory sought to establish a link between the shape of the skull and one’s intellectual faculties or character traits; the various painted zones corresponded to these hypothesized brain faculties. This rare skull likely served as an aid for demonstration or study.
In good condition.
Origin: most likely European, possibly French. 19th century.
Provenance: a cabinet of curiosities in Metz, followed by the collection of a neurophysiologist in Paris.