Harvard University library removes human skin binding from 19th-century book

Harvard University recently took a significant step by removing the binding made of human skin from a 19th-century book housed at its esteemed Houghton Library. This decision was prompted by the university's acknowledgment of the book's controversial origins and historical context.

Unveiling the Truth

The book in question, "Des Destinies de l'Ame" (Destinies of the Soul), authored by French writer Arsène Houssaye, dates back to the 1800s. Originally belonging to Dr Ludovic Bouland, a French physician and bibliophile who passed away in 1933, the book's binding was crafted using the skin of a deceased female patient from a hospital where Bouland worked. Notably, this act was conducted without the individual's consent.

Revelation and Response

While the book had been part of Harvard's collection since 1934, it wasn't until eight decades later that it was confirmed to have been bound with human skin. In 2014, the university publicly disclosed this unsettling truth in a blog post, attracting widespread media attention. However, the university expressed regret over the sensationalized and insensitive tone adopted in the post, which inadvertently contributed to sensationalistic media coverage.

Ethical Review and Apology

The decision to remove the human skin binding follows a comprehensive review conducted by Houghton Library, prompted by recommendations outlined in the Report of the Harvard University Steering Committee on Human Remains in University Museum Collections in 2022. Harvard University authorities are currently deliberating on the respectful disposition of these human remains. Additionally, the university issued a formal apology, acknowledging past shortcomings in the stewardship of the book and expressing remorse for any adverse effects caused by these actions.

Harvard University's decision to remove the human skin binding from the 19th-century book reflects a commitment to ethical standards and respect for human dignity. As the university strives to rectify past mistakes, this episode serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible stewardship and sensitivity in handling historical artifacts.