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A goitrous model for Bartolomeo Vivarini (1432-1499)
R Accorona1, S Torretta2, L Pignataro2
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy. accorona_remo@hotmail.it.
Journal of Endocrinological Investigation
|March 12, 2020
Summary
Renaissance painter Bartolomeo Vivarini depicted female figures with goiters, suggesting a potential prevalence of thyroid conditions like postpartum thyroiditis in women during that era.
Area of Science:
- Art History
- Medical Humanities
- Renaissance Studies
Background:
- Bartolomeo Vivarini, an Italian Renaissance painter, was influenced by Andrea Mantegna's detailed anatomical depictions.
- Analysis focused on Vivarini's valued paintings, specifically examining female figures.
Observation:
- A recurring motif in Vivarini's art is the portrayal of women with visible thyroid swelling (goiter).
- This artistic representation may indicate a higher incidence of thyroid diseases among Renaissance women.
Findings:
- The consistent depiction of goiter suggests it was a notable physical characteristic in some female subjects.
- Possible medical conditions include postpartum thyroiditis, reflecting the health landscape of the period.
Implications:
- Vivarini's detailed portrayals highlight the growing anatomical accuracy in Renaissance art.
- The representation of goiter offers insights into historical medical conditions and artistic conventions.
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