Joseph Merrick was born in England in 1862 and spent much of his life enduring the stares and rejection of those around him. A rare condition caused his bones and tissues to grow disproportionately, especially in his head and face.
His appearance led to him being exhibited in shows under the nickname “The Elephant Man”. However, behind that name was a sensitive and intelligent man who simply wanted to be treated with dignity.
The size and weight of his head prevented him from sleeping lying down. Every night, he had to rest sitting up, in a position that would not put too much pressure on his neck.
On April 11, 1890, when he was just 27 years old, he was found dead in his bed, lying down this time.
His doctor, Frederick Treves, believed Merrick had tried to sleep like anyone else, but the weight of his head may have caused a serious neck injury.
His death was attributed to asphyxiation, although the exact circumstances could never be fully established.
More than a century later, images of his skull continue to show the extent of a condition that turned even rest into a challenge.