Early medicine, from the body to the stars

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In autumn 2010, the Martin Bodmer Foundation in Geneva hosted a groundbreaking exhibition on the history of medicine, showcasing 250 items from Antiquity to the 17th century. Curated by Dr. Gérald d’Andiran and directed by Professor Charles Méla, with contributions from Professors Vincent Barras and Bernardino Fantini, the exhibition traced the evolution of medical knowledge through diverse cultural influences. It highlighted practices from Ancient Egypt and the Greek origins of medicine, illustrating the transmission of knowledge via Nestorians, Jews, and Arabs. Manuscripts from the 8th and 9th centuries revealed an autonomous monastic medical tradition, while medieval herbals and Theriaca treatises emphasized a deep connection to nature. The hand, celebrated by Galen, symbolized harmony and knowledge, merging antique concepts with the erudition of the Middle Ages. This period also saw the rise of humanism in the 12th century and the writings of Hildegard von Bingen, alongside advancements in anatomy and surgery. The exhibition included 30 previously unseen documents, showcasing Asian medical practices like acupuncture and Ayurvedic therapy. Prestigious partners included the British Library, the Wellcome Library, and the Bibliothèque nationale de France. The accompanying catalogue features insights from 98 international contributors.