Spieren in het mannelijk lichaam 1614

This print by Pieter Feddes van Harlingen presents a stark, full-length depiction of the musculature of a male figure, rendered with fine lines and a clear emphasis on anatomical detail. The figure stands frontally, arms slightly extended, allowing an unobstructed view of the intricate muscle groups. The composition is carefully structured to showcase the body as a complex system of interconnected forms. The artist’s strategic use of line not only defines each muscle but also creates a sense of depth and texture, which encourages a reading of the body as a structured architecture. The image reflects a broader cultural and philosophical interest in understanding the human form as a mechanical apparatus. This approach mirrors the burgeoning scientific revolution, where empirical observation and systematic analysis were increasingly applied to the natural world. The print invites viewers to contemplate the boundaries between art and science. It challenges us to consider how visual representation can serve as both an aesthetic object and a tool for knowledge.