Study 1867

Józef Simmler’s "Study" presents two hands, palms forward, fingers extended, rendered with delicate precision. This gesture—the open hand—is rich with meaning. Consider the 'manus Dei', the hand of God, a motif stretching back to early Christian art, symbolizing divine intervention. In medieval depictions, this hand often emerges from the heavens, bestowing blessings or enacting miracles. Simmler’s study evokes this sense of transcendent communication, subtly echoing the profound spiritual yearning found in earlier works. Yet, observe how this symbol evolves. The raised hand appears again and again, in secular contexts, shifting from divine to human power, from supplication to command. The emotional resonance remains potent, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. Simmler masterfully captures this tension, hinting at the enduring power of archetypal gestures. Thus, the open hand—a symbol deeply embedded in our collective memory—reappears, transformed yet familiar, in Simmler’s poignant study.