Right Hand of an Apostle 

Albrecht Durer made this drawing of the Right Hand of an Apostle in the late 15th or early 16th century. It exemplifies the artist's detailed realism and his deep engagement with religious themes. Made in Germany during the Renaissance, this drawing reflects a society undergoing profound changes. The rise of humanism, the Reformation, and the increasing importance of individual expression, all influenced Durer's artistic vision. The level of detail, evident in the sinews and wrinkles of the hand, suggests a commitment to observation and empirical study. Consider the role of religious institutions at the time. Durer lived during the Protestant Reformation, a movement that challenged the authority of the Catholic Church. By studying preparatory sketches such as this one, and researching the social and religious context of the period, we can gain a richer understanding of the artist's intentions and the broader cultural values that shaped his work.