Superficial anatomy
Encyclopedia
Superficial anatomy
(also called surface anatomy) is a descriptive science dealing with anatomical features that can be studied by sight, without dissecting
an organism. In particular, in the case of human superficial anatomy, these are the form and proportions of the human body and the surface landmarks which correspond to deeper structures hidden from view, both in static pose and in motion. It is also called "visual anatomy".
In addition, the science of superficial anatomy includes the theories and systems of body proportions
and related artistic canons. Studying of superficial anatomy is the basis for depiction of human body in classic art
.
Some pseudo-sciences such as physiognomy
, phrenology
and palmistry rely on superficial anatomy.
Anatomy
Anatomy is a branch of biology and medicine that is the consideration of the structure of living things. It is a general term that includes human anatomy, animal anatomy , and plant anatomy...
(also called surface anatomy) is a descriptive science dealing with anatomical features that can be studied by sight, without dissecting
Dissection
Dissection is usually the process of disassembling and observing something to determine its internal structure and as an aid to discerning the functions and relationships of its components....
an organism. In particular, in the case of human superficial anatomy, these are the form and proportions of the human body and the surface landmarks which correspond to deeper structures hidden from view, both in static pose and in motion. It is also called "visual anatomy".
In addition, the science of superficial anatomy includes the theories and systems of body proportions
Body proportions
While there is significant variation in anatomical proportions between people, there are many references to body proportions that are intended to be canonical, either in art, measurement, or medicine....
and related artistic canons. Studying of superficial anatomy is the basis for depiction of human body in classic art
Art
Art is the product or process of deliberately arranging items in a way that influences and affects one or more of the senses, emotions, and intellect....
.
Some pseudo-sciences such as physiognomy
Physiognomy
Physiognomy is the assessment of a person's character or personality from their outer appearance, especially the face...
, phrenology
Phrenology
Phrenology is a pseudoscience primarily focused on measurements of the human skull, based on the concept that the brain is the organ of the mind, and that certain brain areas have localized, specific functions or modules...
and palmistry rely on superficial anatomy.
See also
- List of superficial anatomical features
- List of images in Gray's Anatomy: XII. Surface anatomy and Surface Markings
- AnatomyAnatomyAnatomy is a branch of biology and medicine that is the consideration of the structure of living things. It is a general term that includes human anatomy, animal anatomy , and plant anatomy...
Books
- Drawing the Living Figure by Joseph SheppardJoseph SheppardJoseph Sheppard is an American Actor. His first public appearance was in 1968 as a child guest on the Art Linkletter House Party television program.Sheppard was graduated Verdugo Hills High School Joseph Sheppard is an American Actor. His first public appearance was in 1968 as a child guest on...
, ISBN 0-486-26723-7