The artwork “Studies of the Hands of Erasmus of Rotterdam,” created by Hans Holbein the Younger around 1523 in Germany, is a notable piece from the Northern Renaissance. It measures 15.3 x 20.6 cm and is currently housed in the Louvre, Paris, France. This work, belonging to the genre of sketch and study, showcases Holbein’s meticulous attention to detail and his deep observational skills.
The artwork portrays three detailed sketches of hands. The upper left shows a hand with slightly curved fingers, seemingly relaxed. The center illustrates a hand actively engaged in writing, holding a pen or quill with precise grip. The bottom hand rests on a flat surface, showcasing its natural resting state with fingers spread slightly. Each hand is depicted with remarkable precision, highlighting the play of light and shadow on the skin and the intricate lines of the fingers and nails. This careful study underlines Holbein’s interest in capturing the essence of human anatomy and gesture.
