Andreas Vesalius

The anatomist is an artist, revealing the hidden beauty and complexity of the human form.

The human body is a testament to the power of evolution, a product of millions of years of natural selection.

The pursuit of anatomical knowledge is a lifelong endeavor, for there is always more to learn and to discover.

I have not been able to discover a single one of the seven bones of the sternum described by Galen, but have found the sternum to consist of three bones only, and sometimes of four.

I am not unaware how difficult it is to write about the human body, for there is no part of it that is not subject to change and decay.

I have often wondered at the temerity of those who, without any knowledge of anatomy, presume to practice medicine.

I have not hesitated to correct the errors of Galen, for I believe that truth is to be preferred to authority.

The study of anatomy is not only useful for physicians, but also for painters, sculptors, and all who wish to represent the human form with accuracy.

I have often been astonished at the ignorance of those who, though they have dissected many bodies, have yet learned nothing from them.

I have always striven to make my descriptions as clear and concise as possible, so that they may be easily understood by all.

I have often been compelled to dissect bodies in secret, for fear of incurring the displeasure of the authorities.

I have often been surprised at the beauty and complexity of the human body, which is truly a masterpiece of divine creation.

I have often been saddened by the thought that so many excellent anatomists have lived and died without leaving behind them any lasting monument of their labors.

I have always believed that the study of anatomy is the foundation of all medical knowledge.

I have often been criticized for my boldness in challenging the authority of Galen, but I believe that truth is more important than tradition.

I have often been delighted by the progress that has been made in anatomy during my lifetime, and I hope that it will continue to advance in the future.

I have often been frustrated by the difficulty of obtaining human bodies for dissection, but I have always persevered in my efforts.

I have often been inspired by the example of the ancient anatomists, who, despite their limited resources, made so many important discoveries.

I have often been amazed at the ingenuity of the human body, which is capable of so many wonderful things.

I have often been moved by the suffering of my patients, and I have always striven to alleviate their pain.