Twee onderarmen 1820 - 1826

Jean Augustin Daiwaille made this drawing titled 'Two Underarms' using graphite, which resides in the Rijksmuseum. Upon viewing this artwork, the initial impression is one of anatomical study and precise draftsmanship. Daiwaille masterfully uses line and shading to articulate the forms of the arms and hands. The composition divides the image into two distinct sections, each dedicated to a different arm posture, creating a comparative study in form and function. The rendering of the skin with subtle gradations of tone and texture emphasizes a commitment to realistic representation. This attention to detail not only showcases the artist’s technical skill but also invokes a sense of the body as a subject of scientific inquiry. The absence of color directs our focus toward the formal elements of line, shape, and the modulation of light, thereby highlighting the artist's exploration of structure and anatomical accuracy. Ultimately, the drawing invites contemplation on how artistic skill intersects with scientific observation.