252 THE ARTISTIC ANATOMY OF ANIMALS 



previous studies of comparative osteology that this latter 

 is situated much higher up. 



The plantar cushion is a sort of fibrous wedge which 

 occupies the interval bounded by the fibro-cartilaginous 

 plates which we have just been studying. Its inferior surface, 

 the form of which we shall lind to be reproduced by a 

 portion of the corresponding surface of the hoof, is pro- 

 longed anteriorly into a point, while behind it is divided into 

 two branches, which, diverging from one another, join the 

 posterior angles of the iibro-cartilages. These two branches 

 are separated by a median excavation. 



The different constituent elements which we have just 

 been discussing give elasticity to the foot. 



To finish the examination of the parts contained in the 

 hoof, we will add that among them is also found what is 

 called the fleshy envelope, or fiesh of the foot. 



We divide the latter into three regions : the podophyllous 

 tissue, striated or laminated flesh which is spread out over 

 the anterior surface of the third phalanx ; the pad, or the 

 hardened skin which corresponds to the upper border of the 

 hoof, and forms a prominence above the podophyllous 

 tissue ; and the villous flesh, or velvety tissue which covers 

 the plantar surface of the third phalanx and the plantar 

 cushion. These three tissues form as a whole the kerato- 

 genic membrane — that is to say, that which produces horny 

 tissue, and consequently regenerates the hoof. 



It is this latter that we now proceed to study. 



When we examine its anterior surface or the opposite one, 

 the hoof of the horse has the shape of a truncated cone 

 with the base below and the summit cut off obliquely 

 downwards and backwards (Fig. 97). 



Viewed on one of its lateral aspects, it may be compared 

 to a truncated cylinder placed on the surface of the section 

 (Fig. 98). We particularly call attention to this latter com- 

 parison, for it singularly aids us in making a representation 

 of the foot of the horse when viewed laterally. 



Notwithstanding that the hoof forms apparently a homo- 

 geneous whole, it consists of three parts, which may be 

 separated from one another by maceration. The indication 



