In 1886, Levi Yaggy published a ground breaking work called Yaggy’s Anatomical Study. This work featured full-sized diagrams of human organs, muscles, skeleton, arteries and veins. The album contains nine large colour illustrations, including diagrams showing the effects of alcohol on the kidneys, liver, and brain.
Printed on cloth-coated paper, the illustrations include fold-our flaps, sections and overlays that represent the anatomical layers. Additionally, the folio features four life-size diagrams of the body, head, eye, and ear. Interactive fold-out panels of this size, number and configuration had not been seen or published before. Housed in a large wallet folding folio secured with a metal clasp, specially designed to display the large illustrations. Levi Yaggy, went on to patent the folding wallet display binding.
Yaggy utilized Chromolithography, which consisted of colour lithographs known for their vibrant, high-gloss colours that typically covered the entire paper. The exquisite illustrations showcase striking colours and contrasts. These were mainly created by “for-hire” artists, who largely remain anonymous.
Levi Walter Yaggy
Levi Yaggy (1848-1912) was an American inventor, author and publisher. In 1874, he established the Great Western Publishing House in Chicago, focusing on producing maps and educational materials for high schools and universities. Yaggy also wrote books on anthropology and occasional inspirational works such as “Aims and Aids to Success and Happiness” (1881). Additionally, he was an inventor and held several patents, including the one for the folding wallet display binding.
Written by Margot Way, CALHN Health Museum