Körperbilder in Kunst, Kult und Medizin

The figures lay in the mud of a thermal pool, the center of an Etruscan-Roman sanctuary for healing deities that had been active for many centuries. The bronze finds are being exhibited in Berlin for the first time outside of Italy.


The finds illustrate that themes such as illness, hope, and healing were already of great importance to people thousands of years ago. In addition to depictions of intact body parts, votive offerings depicting the diseased body are particularly unique. They contrast with the idealized image of the body in ancient art.


The archaeologist and curator of the Antikensammlung Agnes Schwarzmaier and the medical historian Thomas Schnalke will jointly guide the exhibition on September 24, 2025, and discuss the bronzes from various perspectives.


The tandem tour "Body Images in Art, Cult, and Medicine" will take place on two dates at two locations.


First on September 24th at the James Simon Gallery on Museum Island.

On October 1st, the two experts will continue their journey through medical history from the modern era to the present day at the Charité Museum of Medical History in Berlin.


Each tour can be taken individually, but will be linked to the other exhibition. Attendance at both tours is therefore recommended.


Participation fee: €6 plus admission.
Limited number of participants. Online booking recommended.



(IN GERMAN)