Based on an unsurpassed private collection, this lavish book is a survey of the skull - in humans and other mammals, and also birds, reptiles and fish. Exploring anatomy and species-specific features such as horns, teeth, beaks and bills, the author also discusses the skull as a powerful symbol in art, culture and religion. Specimens are displayed in more than 300 photographs, ranging from an ostrich to an orangutan, and from a crocodile to a seahorse, with notes highlighting interesting features.