Crown Office, 25 Chambers Street, Edinburgh EH1 1LA
Until 1886 this was the site of Edinburgh’s phrenological museum, founded by the president of the Edinburgh Phrenological Society, George Combes. Phrenologists believed that people’s characters were determined by the development of the ‘organs’ of the brain, which could by read by examining the shapes of their skulls. It represented an early attempt to explain the human mind in terms of the physical structure of the brain. The carved stone heads on the exterior of the building reflected its occupants interest in the shapes of people’s craniums.
No public access.
George Combe (1788–1848).
The phrenological organs, from George Combe, Outlines of Phrenology (1836).
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5 Responses to “Phrenological Museum”
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Do you know when it was built?
I am having great trouble finding out.
It says in one source that they used funds left by William Hunter, but not when the building was erected!
Any help much appreciated.
Wynyard Wilkinson F.S.A.Scot
Thanks Wynyard and sorry for the delay! We will have to look into this, but will let you know asap. Best, Niki
Dear Wynyard,
I just did a bit of online research and found a blogpost of the anatomical museum which is detailing the history of the museum, and says the building opened in 1878. See also https://anatomicalmuseum.wordpress.com/phrenology/
Best wishes,
Niki
I realise I am coming to this a bit late, but Historic Environment Scotland have it listed as being built in 1875-77. Full record here: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/LB27981
hello,
would it be possible to know who are the sculpted faces on the window? thank you