Pagan symbols associated with the female anatomy in the Medici Chapel by Michelangelo Buonarroti

Clin Anat. 2017 Jul;30(5):572-577. doi: 10.1002/ca.22882. Epub 2017 May 17.

Abstract

Numerous studies have shown that many works of art from the Renaissance period contain hidden symbols and codes that could have religious, mathematical and/or pagan significance and even anatomical allusions. In this context, the present manuscript offers new evidence that the great genius of anatomy, Michelangelo Buonarroti (1475-1564), included pagan symbols associated with female anatomy in the funerary monuments found in the Sagrestia Nuova/Medici Chapel (1519-1533) in Florence, Italy. The interpretation of the symbols provided in this study will interest those with a passion for the history of anatomy. Clin. Anat. 30:572-577, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Keywords: Medici Chapel; Michelangelo; Pagan symbols; female anatomy.

Publication types

  • Historical Article

MeSH terms

  • Anatomy / history*
  • Famous Persons*
  • Female
  • Genitalia, Female / anatomy & histology*
  • History, 16th Century
  • Humans
  • Symbolism*