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Artwork

Study of a Hand

Hiram Powers , 1856

Study of a Hand, by Hiram Powers, chalk, 1856
Study of a Hand, by Hiram Powers, chalk, 1856

Study of a Hand is a chalk drawing by the Impressionist artist Hiram Powers. It dates from 1856 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Study of a Hand is a drawing created by Hiram Powers in 1856, executed in charcoal and white chalk on green wove paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a single hand resting on a flat surface, with fingers curled and thumb tucked under, conveying a sense of stillness and intimacy.

Technique & Style

Powers employed scumbling, applying charcoal in quick, choppy strokes to achieve a textured look, and used soft shading to capture the shape and texture of the skin.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Hiram Powers

Artist

Hiram Powers

American, Woodstock, Vermont 1805–1873 Florence

SAME SUBJECT

Similarity 98 percent

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.In the collection of National Gallery of Art. Compiled & edited by , Editor & Founder.