Studies van voeten c. 1707 - 1722

This is Studies van voeten by Carel van der Hem, rendered in delicate lines on paper. Van der Hem offers us a glimpse into the symbolic world of the foot. Since ancient times, the foot has been a potent symbol, representing foundation, movement, and direction. In many cultures, feet bear the marks of journeys, both literal and metaphorical. Think of the footprints of the Buddha, venerated as symbols of his presence and path. Or the act of washing feet, a gesture of humility and service found across religious traditions. Here, each foot is slightly different, revealing a narrative of individual experience marked upon the body. The attention to detail elevates these studies beyond mere anatomy; they become palimpsests of life. We see the foot not just as a physical structure, but as a testament to the enduring human capacity to walk, to strive, and to leave a mark upon the world.