Project outline
The purpose of this survey and associated research is to map and document the holdings of Brendel botanical models worldwide. Data will be used to build a webpage dedicated to linking these collections in the form of an interactive online map. A brief overview of each collection will be provided, along with links to associated publications, available databases, and online images.
Over time this mapping exercise will enable the creation of a fully-imaged inventory of the entire Brendel catalogue, available for consultation. This will include photographs of models in their assembled and dismantled states. Subtle variations in the hand-crafted models will also be revealed by viewing comparative examples of the same species.
The collated information will:
- aide consolidation of individual component model parts
- help with the identification of unlabelled models
- provide reference for assemblage
- support further research into Brendel plant models
The objective of this research project is to not only to provide a useful resource to be used in the curation of anatomical models, but to document their past and present use - promoting and bringing awareness of these collections to new audiences.
Donna Young
Curator of Herbarium, National Museums Liverpool
donna.young@liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
