Arm

Arm is a drawing by Alfred William Rich. It dates from 1898 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Alfred William Rich’s drawing titled *Arm*, executed around 1898, is a pencil study of a single nude forearm. The composition isolates the limb, which is bent at the elbow with the hand turned downward and the fingers loosely curled. Rendered in monochrome, the work focuses on the anatomical form and the subtle play of light across the skin.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing presents an intimate examination of the human arm, emphasizing its musculature and the delicate texture of the skin. By concentrating on a solitary body part, Rich invites contemplation of the figure’s physical presence without narrative distraction, suggesting a study of form and gesture rather than a specific story.

Technique & Style

Rich employs fine pencil lines and cross‑hatching to model volume, using varying pressure to create gradations of tone. The shading delineates muscle contours and the curvature of the fingers, while the visible strokes convey the tactile quality of flesh. The approach reflects the academic drawing practices of the late nineteenth century, prioritizing precise observation.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1898, the drawing entered the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum, where it remains part of the institution’s holdings of British art. Its acquisition date and prior ownership are not documented in the available records, but the work is catalogued as a representative example of Rich’s academic drawing practice.