Anatomical study of the neck, abdominal and thigh muscles of a man in silhouette 1906 - 1945

Reijer Stolk created this anatomical study of the neck, abdominal, and thigh muscles of a man in silhouette. The artwork presents a stark contrast between the dark figure and the light background, immediately drawing our attention to the human form. The artist meticulously details the musculature, using fine lines to separate and number each muscle group. This ordered arrangement invites us to consider the underlying structures of the human body. The silhouette is not just an outline but a complex map, turning the body into a landscape of anatomical features. The choice of a silhouette removes individual characteristics, focusing instead on universal anatomical structures. This formal decision emphasizes the body as a system, inviting reflection on the human condition. This piece challenges the way we view the body, prompting ongoing re-interpretation of the complex interplay between form and function.