Original Lizar’s Anatomical Print – 19th Century Engraving, Foot Bones & Cartilage

Original 19th-Century Anatomical Engraving by John Lizars — Plate XLV (Foot, Bones & Cartilage)

A detailed and beautifully hand-coloured copperplate engraving from John Lizars’ A System of Anatomical Plates of the Human Body, published in Edinburgh between 1823–1827. This exceptional plate illustrates the anatomy of the human foot—bones, cartilage, and related structures—with the precision and artistry that make Lizars’ works highly sought after by collectors of medical history, anatomy, and fine art illustration.

This impressive 200-year-old engraving is part of Lizars’ renowned anatomical atlas, celebrated for its museum-quality craftsmanship and significant role in 19th-century medical education.

Approximate size: Folio (43 × 27 cm)

John Lizars studied under the Edinburgh surgeon John Bell, later becoming a respected teacher of anatomy and surgery. His brother, William Home Lizars (1788–1859), engraved all plates on copper. “The engravings or etchings were time-consuming to produce, and the colouring was executed skilfully and painstakingly by hand” (Roberts & Tomlinson, The Fabric of the Body, 504–505). “This superb atlas is certainly one of the most elegant works of the nineteenth century” (Cushing L313). Additional references: Heirs of Hippocrates 1436; Waller 5950; Wellcome III: 531.

Condition:
As an antique original nearly two centuries old, this plate may exhibit light spotting (foxing), toning, dust marks, or small closed tears at the outer margins—typical and expected for prints of this age.

Worldwide delivery available, or collection from one of our Glasgow stores.
SKU: RF248/247