Here we have an old charcoal anatomical study of various forms of hands, including a skeletal hand. This has Dark Academia written all over it. Even a medical vibe to it. No doubt about it, this is a one-of-a-kind hand-drawn piece, showcasing the meticulous skill of traditional academic art training. The sketch features a striking central study of the carpal and metacarpal bones, surrounded by four detailed renderings of the hand’s musculature and surface anatomy in various natural poses. The use of light and shadow (chiaroscuro) creates a powerful, three-dimensional effect that celebrates the complexity of human biology. In other words, it’s absolutely sick!
The piece is signed in the lower right corner with the initials "H.C.D." This signature is consistent with the early academic studies of French artist Henri Courselles-Dumont (1856–1918), though it is sold as an "attributed" work of the period.
The vintage academic style drawing came out of a Chicago estate. The piece is signed “H.C.D” but I haven’t nailed down the artist so we’re dealing with a mystery artist. I believe this piece was created in the 1940s or early 1950s.
The framed artwork measures 25" tall by 18 1/2" wide. There is light surface patina throughout the artwork. One pic has a view of the internal structure of the artwork and matting. Please see all pics as they are part of the description.
I ship FedEx to street addresses in the continental USA only (no PO boxes). Free shipping on the WPA era artwork.
A cool vibe amongst the heavy shadows. HCD was no joke in the detail department.
