The present anatomical and clinical literature is not detailed enough for a clear understanding of the three-dimensional anatomy of the trapezium. It lacks descriptions of identifiable landmarks needed for the interpretation of two-dimensional radiographs. Fifty dry cadaver trapezia were assessed and an extended surface anatomy described. New consistent landmarks were described and the tubercle of the trapezium was redefined. The incidence of the salient osteological features in Caucasian trapezia was recorded.