Studies of hands for the painting ‘The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary’ 1864

Józef Simmler’s "Studies of hands for the painting ‘The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary’" (1864) is a preparatory drawing for a larger painting. Executed in pencil on paper, it depicts several studies of hands in various poses, likely intended for the figures in the final composition. The artist’s attention to detail in capturing the subtle nuances of form and gesture suggests a meticulous approach to his work. The study of hands, a crucial element of figure drawing, is a common theme in the history of art. Simmler's detailed rendering demonstrates the importance of anatomical study for artists seeking to portray human figures with realism. This preparatory drawing provides a glimpse into the artist’s creative process and helps us understand the meticulous work involved in creating a large-scale painting.