Studie van twee gevouwen handen 1874 - 1925

Jan Veth created this small drawing of two folded hands with pen in grey ink and brush in grey and brown watercolor. Veth was well known as a portrait artist and author during the late 19th century in the Netherlands. At the time Veth made this drawing, the representation of hands in art was often associated with skill, class, and gender. Here, the delicate rendering of the hands evokes a sense of intimacy and contemplation. The hands suggest a narrative of vulnerability, perhaps speaking to broader themes of identity and self-expression. While the hands might seem to represent an anonymous sitter, the study reflects Veth’s personal sensibilities as an artist, intellectual, and member of the cultural elite. Ultimately, Veth’s drawing captures a moment of human connection, inviting us to reflect on the subtle yet powerful ways in which we communicate through our bodies.