17th century dissection. Historical artwork of a dissected man in the anatomical lecture theatre of Leiden University, Netherlands. Cadavers, usually executed criminals, could only be dissected during cold weather, when the smell of decay was not overpowering. At other times, skeletons and stuffed animals (seen around the lecture theatre) would be used for demonstrations. The surgical instruments used for dissection are at upper centre. This 1616 engraving is by William Swanenburgh.