From prehistoric statues to modern magnetic resonance imaging, the human body has been a source of inspiration and fascination for artists and scientists alike.

From prehistoric statues to modern resonance imaging, the human body - idealized or abused, naked or clothed, beautiful or distorted, male or female, young or old, black or white, still or moving - has been a continual source of inspiration for artists and scientists alike. Touching upon the whole human condition, these representations express a range of emotions - fear, love, hatred - and often excite strong passions. Whether intended as works of art or medical illustrations, political acts or erotic displays, advertising gimmicks or documentary evidence, these images celebrate the human form in its many guises.