The dolls were invented in the late 18th century (Victorian Era) to educate both physicians and laymen about the peculiarities of female anatomy. If not in a medical institution, an Anatomical Venus could often be found on display in traveling sideshows. Women were allowed and even encouraged to visit these expositions, as it was deemed important they learned about the workings of their own body. The displays also served to warn the general populace of the dangers of promiscuity, as there was often a whole section of them devoted to venereal diseases.