Questioning the anatomical truth: is the dissected arm in 'The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp' truly exposing the ulnar nerve?
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37085/nsa.2024.9Keywords:
Art, Anatomy, Peripheral Nerve, Rembrandt, Ulnar NerveAbstract
Introduction
Autopsies were important events in Holland in the 17th century. One of these autopsies was immortalized in the painting by Rembrandt. The analysis of Rembrandt's painting, The Anatomy Lesson of Dr Nicolaes Tulp (1632), which shows the dissected forearm, has been discussed in the literature for decades, with no general consensus regarding the white cord that runs in the ulnar aspect of the carpus and the little finger of the corpse in the dissection, not related to any normal anatomical structure. After searching the literature for anatomical interpretations suggested by other authors, we established a probable explanation for the white cord. Some authors believe that it is an anatomical variant of the ulnar nerve.
Objective
This brief review aims to assess and interpret the filamentous structure depicted on the left forearm and hand in Rembrandt's painting, focusing on its unidentified nature. To achieve this, a cadaveric dissection was carried out to more accurately identify the various anatomical structures depicted in the painting.
Methods
Seeking to replicate the dissected arm depicted in Dr. Tulp's dissection, an adult human cadaveric forearm was dissected to highlight the branch of the ulnar nerve extending towards the little finger.
Conclusion
We suggest the unexpected long filament on the ulnar aspect of the hand is a filament detached from the tendon located in the forearm/hand. Possibly, in order to be painted, it was placed laterally rather than adjoining the sectioned part of the tendon in the original location, the tendon itself.
References
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