Vienna
Completed

Under the Skin: Exploring the Birth of Modern Medicine, Anatomy, and Pathology

Delve into the scientific methodology of medical pioneers Rokitansky, Skoda, and Zuckerkandl, connecting historical practices with current possibilities.

The 'Under the Skin' exhibition offers a profound exploration into the foundations of modern medicine. It spotlights the critical roles of Carl von Rokitansky, Josef Skoda, and Emil Zuckerkandl, whose expertise in pathology, internal medicine, and anatomy revolutionized medical understanding. The exhibition connects these historical practices with contemporary medical technology and artistic perspectives on the human body.

About _Under_ the skin at Josephinum in Vienna

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for _Under_ the skin at Josephinum in Vienna

Exhibition summary

This exhibition explores the birth of modern medicine through the work of pioneers Carl von Rokitansky, Josef Skoda, and Emil Zuckerkandl. It highlights their revolutionary scientific approach, precise observation methods, and contributions to pathology, internal medicine, and anatomy.

Curatorial context

The exhibition '_Under_ the skin: Rokitansky-Skoda-Zuckerkandl - The birth of modern medicine' commemorates significant anniversaries in Viennese medical history. It centers on three pivotal figures: Carl von Rokitansky, Josef Skoda, and Emil Zuckerkandl, who were instrumental in the development of modern medicine through their expertise in pathology, internal medicine, and anatomy, respectively. The exhibition emphasizes their revolutionary scientific methodology, characterized by rigorous observation and a quest for causal understanding of the human body's functioning. Beyond the historical contributions, the exhibition extends to contemporary medicine, showcasing advancements like the latest imaging techniques for internal diagnosis and treatment, using the heart and brain as examples. It also features interventions by three contemporary artists—Ali Kazma, Yuri Ancarani, and Ville Lenkkeri—whose video works and projections offer diverse perspectives on anatomy, cryonics, robotic surgery, and the fate of medical history collections, connecting historical practices with current possibilities and challenges in the medical field.

Admission and ticket notes

Information regarding tickets or admission is not detailed on this page. Please refer to the official Josephinum website for visitor details.

_Under_ the skin key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for _Under_ the skin at Josephinum in Vienna

Venue
Josephinum
Current status
Completed
Exhibition schedule
Dec 19, 2014 – Oct 3, 2015
Artist line / attribution
Features interventions by contemporary artists Ali Kazma, Yuri Ancarani, and Ville Lenkkeri, who respond to the work and legacy of Rokitansky, Skoda, and Zuckerkandl.
More from Josephinum
Explore additional exhibitions from the same institution
Review other exhibitions from Josephinum in Vienna to compare themes, timelines, and program direction while planning your museum visit.
A watercolor illustration of a person researching historical medical documents in a museum gallery, with musical notes suggesting Beethoven's era, related to the exhibition 'The Seligmann Fragments and Beethoven's Doctors: A Search for Traces'.
Permanent exhibition

Josephinum Presents: The Seligmann Fragments and Beethoven's Doctors Exhibition

An ongoing journey into historical medicine and cultural archives.

Discover a unique exploration of medical history at the Josephinum. This exhibition uncovers the Seligmann fragments and examines the medical professionals connected to Ludwig van Beethoven, offering rich historical insights.

Seligmann Fragments
Watercolor illustration of a museum exhibit featuring anatomical wax models in glass cases, medical instruments, and historical documents, representing the Josephinum's permanent exhibition on medical history.
Permanent exhibition

Josephinum Permanent Exhibition: Uncovering Centuries of Medical History and Wax Models

Explore Vienna's significant contributions to medical science and bioethics.

Witness the evolution of medicine through unique artifacts, from anatomical wax models commissioned by Emperor Joseph II to groundbreaking surgical instruments. Understand key developments and modern ethical questions explored within the Josephinum's extensive permanent collection.

Permanent Exhibition
A watercolor-style artwork depicting a female figure in purple and gold, holding a chalice with a snake, surrounded by symbolic imagery of life, birth, and death, inspired by Gustav Klimt's 'Medicine' painting.
From Mar 26, 2026

Gustav Klimt and Medicine Exhibition: Exploring Art and Science at the Josephinum

Uncover Klimt's controversial painting 'Medicine' and rare drawings from Vienna 1900.

This exhibition at Josephinum examines Gustav Klimt's ties to medical progress in Vienna. See the AI-reconstructed 'Medicine' painting, original Klimt drawings, and historical medical exhibits. Explore the profound influence of science on his artistic vision.

Klimt Medicine Exhibition
Watercolor illustration of a historical artificial heart pump on display in a museum, showcasing mechanical components and tubing, representing pioneering medical research in Vienna.
From May 5, 2017

Artificial Hearts: The Bridge to Survival Exhibition at Josephinum Vienna

Pioneering Viennese research in medical history and surgical advancements.

Explore the Josephinum's exhibition detailing Vienna's groundbreaking work in artificial heart technology. Learn about the 'bridge to survival' and its impact on modern cardiac support, blending science with art.

Artificial Hearts Exhibition
A purple watercolor illustration of visitors in lab coats examining historical medical exhibits, including documents, a microscope, and a syringe, in a museum setting.
From Mar 14, 2018

Viennese Medical Faculty 1938-1945: National Socialism in Medicine

A historical exhibition at Josephinum exploring the dark chapters of Austrian medical history.

Investigate the impacts of National Socialism on the Viennese Medical Faculty during 1938-1945. This exhibition highlights the history of antisemitism, the expulsion of staff, and the unethical medical practices under Nazi doctrine. Gain insights into a critical period of medical ethics.

Viennese Medical Faculty
Watercolor illustration of a worker uncovering a historical portrait on a wall during the renovation of the Josephinum, a historic building established in 1785.
From Sep 29, 2022

Reiner Riedler's Josephinum Renovation Photography Exhibition: A Visual Documentation

Explore the architectural transformation of a historic 18th-century institution.

Discover Reiner Riedler's captivating photographs detailing the Josephinum's extensive renovation project. See how the 1785 building's historic spaces, including its grand lecture hall, were meticulously restored. This exhibition provides a unique perspective on architectural preservation.

Reiner Riedler Exhibition
Vienna

Discover Current Exhibitions in Vienna: Your Essential Exhibition Search Guide

Explore Vienna's dynamic art and cultural displays today.

Find compelling art, history, and science exhibitions happening throughout Vienna. This specialized resource helps you locate unique cultural experiences and plan your visit to inspiring displays. Explore Vienna's rich cultural scene with ease.