Study of Upraised Left Hand and Arm c. 20th century

Curator: Here, we have Evelyn De Morgan's "Study of Upraised Left Hand and Arm," a sketch from the late 19th century. Editor: It's so simple, yet striking. The grayscale gives it a dramatic feel, almost like a ghostly apparition reaching out. Curator: De Morgan was deeply engaged with spiritualism. This study could be seen as an exploration of gesture, perhaps connected to the expressiveness she sought for figures in her allegorical paintings. Editor: Or maybe she just needed a good reference! I love the way the light catches the knuckles and fingers, giving it a life of its own. It feels surprisingly modern, this focus on a detail, abstracted from the whole. Curator: These academic studies allowed artists to master anatomy and expression, skills that were crucial for the success of their larger compositions, and their reputations. Editor: Well, either way, I think the ghostly vibe will stay with me. It's got a subtle power.