Home > Popular Themes > Human Body
Illustration of the workings and effect of the pineal gland on the human nervous system
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Fine Art Finder
Illustration of the workings and effect of the pineal gland on the human nervous system
694865 Illustration of the workings and effect of the pineal gland on the human nervous system in relation to a reaction to fire, from Tractatus de Homine, published in Amsterdam by Elsevier, 1677 (woodcut) by Dutch School, (17th century); Bibliotheque Nationale, Paris, France; (add.info.: This treatise by ReneDescartes (1596-1650) was one of the earliest Western attempts to offer an explanation of human physiology; one of the main explanations of the workings of the body centered on the pineal gland, which was held to control human nervous functions and to be the " seat of the soul ; ); eArchives Charmet; Dutch, out of copyright
Media ID 22954954
© Archives Charmet / Bridgeman Images
Cartesian Descartes Effect Effects Gland Muscles Nerves Nervous Physiology Reaction System Treatise Affect Affecting Pineal Reactions
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> Related Images
> Europe
> France
> Paris
> Related Images
> Fine Art Finder
> Anatomy & Medical Conditions
> Fine Art Finder
> Artists
> Dutch School
> Fine Art Finder
> Artists
> Photographer French
EDITORS COMMENTS
This woodcut print from the 17th century depicts an illustration of the pineal gland's workings and its effect on the human nervous system in relation to a reaction to fire. The artwork is part of Rene Descartes' treatise, "Tractatus de Homine" which was published in Amsterdam by Elsevier in 1677. Descartes, a renowned philosopher and scientist, believed that the pineal gland played a crucial role in controlling human nervous functions and served as the "seat of the soul". This groundbreaking treatise offered one of the earliest Western explanations of human physiology. In this image, we see a hand reaching out towards flames while various nerves extend from it towards different parts of the body. It symbolizes how our reactions to external stimuli, such as fire, are intricately connected with our nervous system and influenced by the pineal gland. The detailed woodcut showcases not only Descartes' theories but also highlights how early scientists attempted to understand and explain complex physiological processes. It serves as a testament to humanity's continuous quest for knowledge about our own bodies and their intricate mechanisms. Displayed at Bibliotheque Nationale in Paris, France, this historical artwork provides us with valuable insights into centuries-old scientific beliefs while reminding us that curiosity has always driven humans forward on their journey toward understanding themselves.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.