Superficial anatomy (also called surface anatomy) is the study of the external features of the body. It deals with anatomical features that can be studied by sight, without dissecting an organism. It is a branch of gross anatomy, along with endoscopic and radiological anatomy Superficial anatomy is a descriptive science. In particular, in the case of human superficial anatomy, these are the form and proportions of the human body and the surface landmarks which correspond to deeper structures hidden from view, both in static pose and in motion. It is also called "visual anatomy".
In addition, the science of superficial anatomy includes the theories and systems of body proportions and related artistic canons. Studying of superficial anatomy is the basis for depiction of human body in classic art.
Some pseudo-sciences such as physiognomy, phrenology and palmistry rely on superficial anatomy.
Famous quotes containing the words superficial and/or anatomy:
“The German intellect wants the French sprightliness, the fine practical understanding of the English, and the American adventure; but it has a certain probity, which never rests in a superficial performance, but asks steadily, To what end? A German public asks for a controlling sincerity.”
—Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882)
“But a man must keep an eye on his servants, if he would not have them rule him. Man is a shrewd inventor, and is ever taking the hint of a new machine from his own structure, adapting some secret of his own anatomy in iron, wood, and leather, to some required function in the work of the world. But it is found that the machine unmans the user. What he gains in making cloth, he loses in general power.”
—Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882)