A book bound in human skin prompts ethical review and action at Harvard’s Houghton Library

In a decision that underscores the importance of ethical stewardship in historical collections, the Harvard Library announced on Wednesday the removal of a human skin binding from a 19th-century book, “Des Destinées de l’Ame”, housed within its Houghton Library. The book, written in the 1880s by Arsène Houssaye, had its controversial binding discovered a decade ago, sparking debate and reflection on the practice of anthropodermic bibliopegy.

The binding, believed to have originated from Ludovic Bouland, a French physician and the book’s first owner, was intended to reflect the book’s exploration of the human soul. Bouland, who likely sourced the skin from a deceased woman without consent at the hospital where he worked, left a note elucidating his reasoning for such a macabre choice of material.

This revelation led the library to consult with experts and stakeholders, resulting in the decision to replace the binding and lay the human remains to rest respectfully. The library also issued an apology for its past handling of the book, especially its initial response to the discovery, which included publishing what it now recognizes as “sensationalistic blog posts” that trivialized the dignity of the individual whose skin was used.

Historically, the book had been part of a hazing tactic, unknowingly involving students in the retrieval of the book without disclosing its binding origins. The library’s recent acknowledgement and rectification efforts reflect a commitment to respecting human dignity and addressing past oversights.

Harvard Library’s actions represent a broader acknowledgement within the archival and library communities of the need to handle human remains with the utmost respect and sensitivity, especially as it pertains to historical artefacts. The decision to replace the binding of “Des Destinées de l’Ame” serves not only as a corrective measure but also as a pivotal moment for ethical reflection and practice in the stewardship of historical collections.