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RACS ASC 2024

An Artistic Legacy: The Historical Significance of Wax Moulage in the Documentation of Craniofacial Anomalies

Poster

Poster

Disciplines

Surgical History

Presentation Description

Institution: Westmead Hospital - NSW, Australia

The use of wax moulage in the documentation of craniofacial deformities marked a significant chapter in the evolution of medical illustration. Prior to the advent of medical photography, artisans developed moulage techniques to capture and preserve the detail of anatomical anomalies. A number of medical museums around the world house these historic wax specimens, offering insights into the early endeavours to understand craniofacial anatomy and pathology. These museums allow medical professionals, researchers and the public to explore the visual representation of craniofacial deformities through the eyes of their predecessors. This poster explores the techniques employed in the creation of these wax moulages, shedding light on the ingenuity and artistic precision that characterized this unique form of medical documentation.

Speakers