Vincent Fohmann
In 1833, while serving as Rector of the University, Fohmann suffered from myelitis, which paralyzed one of his limbs. He continued to lecture in anatomy at the University, but died prematurely in 1837.
Born in 1794 in Assamstadt (Baden), Vincent Fohmann studied medicine in Heidelberg under the great anatomist Tiedemann, who encouraged him to investigate the lymphatic system. His discoveries in this field earned him international renown. In 1827, after a spell with Temminck in Leiden, Fohmann published a work on The Absorptive System of Vertebrate Animals, in which he challenged the theories of another renowned anatomist, the Florentine Lippi.
Head of anatomy at the University of Heidelberg and associate professor of osteology, Fohmann was appointed professor of anatomy at the University of Liège, replacing Jean-Nicolas Comhaire, who was called away to other duties (1825). At first, he received a cold reception, due to his origins and his difficulty in expressing himself in French. However, this did not prevent him from taking up the position of rector in 1833-1834.
In Liège, he redoubled his activities in the field of dissection, multiplying the number of preparations he meticulously catalogued and planning the creation of an Anatomical Museum. His invaluable collections could only later be displayed in a dedicated room at the University. A member of the Académie de Bruxelles in 1834, he became president of the medical section in 1836. The working conditions imposed by his research soon took their toll on his health. He died prematurely in 1837.
Illustration : Erin Corr (1803-1862), Fohmann, Vincent,1794-1837, BRES KULeuven Centrale Bibliotheek PA00962
