The Belgrade dermatovenereologic moulage collection: past and present

Abstract

The Belgrade dermatovenereologic moulge collection is formed during the period between 1925 and 1958, with one break between 1940 and 1950. The first moulages have been created after the foundation of the Belgrade University's School of Medicine and the Institute of Dermatology and Venereology (IDV), when this form of education became very significant. The collection is now comprised of 350 moulages, of which 280 pieces are completely preserved, whereas 70 are previously damaged. This article describes the work of two authors of moulages: one was Dr. Sergej Pavlovic Alisov, physician, amateur sculptor and painter, and the other was academic sculptor Vojislav Sikoparija. Wide variety of presented cases of skin and venereal diseases have been analysed; before World War I, there was a high proportion and florid pathology of venereal diseases and leprosy, whereas after World War II, these diseases became infrequent. Moulages at the IDV display high authenticity, which in some cases, made possible the correction of original diagnosis according to current criteria. Moulages represent a very significant subject of medical profession, and the need of an expert opinion on the conservation and reparation of moulages, which could be implemented by those in possession of such collections, is emphasized.

Moulages in dermatology-venereology

“…[12][13][14][15] Historians and clinicians are discovering collections of moulages, long forgotten, now considered historical treasures, and attempts are being made to resurrect these collections and put them on display.…”

Wax models in dermatology: Updated through 2020

“…Although few details on his life can be found, it appears he was of Russian descent and active from 1925-1940, subsequently migrating to Germany in 1943. 17 Vojislav Sikoparija followed as official moulageur at the IDV in 1950. His contribution totals 103 pieces, and his retirement in 1958 marks the year the last moulage in this collection was crafted.…”

“…As it stands, the Belgrade collection is currently composed of 350 pieces, although the set is estimated to have originally been much greater in number, and it is theorized that many were destroyed during occupation of the IDV during World War II, and others still during the IDV's move from it's previous location. 17 At present, the moulages are carefully displayed in the Dermatology Hospital's library within wooden glass-door display cabinets isolated from moisture, with black drapes dressing the windows to protect the figures from sunlight.…”