Anatomical Collection of Domestic Animals
Institut für domestic animal nutrition
Photo: ETH Library, Image Archive Showcase. Photo: ETH Library / Frank Blaser
Collection: "Anatomy of Domestic Animals"
Photo: ETH-Bibliothek, Image Archive
Showcase. Photo: ETH Library / Frank Blaser
Teaching collection from the Zoological Collection
Photo: ETH Library, Image Archive Plates. Photo: ETH Library / Frank Blaser
The Anatomical Collection of Domestic Animals has a history spanning 150 years. It holds significant scientific, cultural, and historical value by providing foundational knowledge about the anatomy and physiology of livestock, pets, and wild animals. This collection has been an essential part of the basic education for all graduates of the Agricultural Sciences program at ETH and continues to fulfill this role.
The exhibition in the courtyard of the LFW building showcases a variety of specimens and models of livestock, organized by organ systems in four large showcases. The three-dimensional models facilitate the understanding of the location and structure of the internal organs of cattle, sheep, pigs, horses, and chickens. Illustrated panels and detailed labels allow for an in-depth study of the anatomy of these animals.
Extent
- Mobile large showcases
- Complete skeletons of cattle and horses in showcases
- Wall-mounted showcases with a selection of typical pathologies
- Series of skulls from pigs, dogs, and ruminants
- Skulls of large ruminants on the walls of the “Lichthof”
Holdings
- Anatomical Clastique models
- Preserved organ specimens
- Complete skeletons and skulls
- Bone and dry preparations
- Wax and plaster models
- Series of embryological models
- Plastics and plastinates
- Medical instruments and tools
- Educational posters and legend boards
- Histological sections
- Historical model plows
Relevance of Research and Public
The collection comprises teaching and demonstration material of animal anatomy and pathology. Serial skull collections allow the study of characteristic features of the different domestic animals during the process of domestication.
Current Activities and Projects
Starting in 2023, the collection is being cataloged, inventoried, digitized, and made accessible for research, teaching, and the public. The digitization of selected objects will provide a visually detailed exploration, laying the groundwork for future projects and uses. The collection will be digitally published and archived via the NAHIMA database.
"valēs" – A Foot Shop: A unique installation that merges science and art
Artist Naemi Jael Marty and scenographer Manuel Fabritz have crafted a captivating art installation from objects in the collection.
Use of the archive
The exhibition is open to the public. The collection is primarily used for educational purposes.