Study of hands for the painting ‘Death of Barbara Radziwiłł’ — History & Facts
In Study of hands for the painting ‘Death of Barbara Radziwiłł’, Józef Simmler presents a detailed focus on hands. The drawing showcases a range of skin tones and textures, emphasizing the anatomical precision of the fingers. The background is minimal, allowing the viewer to concentrate on the intricate details of the hands.
This study serves as a preparatory work, illustrating the artist's attention to realism. The artwork is executed in pencil on paper, a medium that allows for fine detail and subtle shading. The dimensions are approximately 25 x 35 cm, making it a modest-sized drawing. The careful rendering of the hands demonstrates Simmler's skill in capturing human anatomy.
This study likely served as a reference for the larger composition of the painting. Józef Simmler was known for his academic approach to art, focusing on realism and detail. This particular work is a study for the larger painting ‘Death of Barbara Radziwiłł’, which depicts a historical event. An interesting fact about this study is that it highlights the importance of preparatory sketches in the artistic process, showcasing how artists meticulously plan their compositions before executing the final piece.
More Artworks by Józef Simmler

Man resting on a bed
Józef Simmler

Mountain landscape
Józef Simmler

Nude studies for the figures of Jaśko of Tęczyn and the man standing behind him for the painting ‘Queen Jadwiga’s Oath’
Józef Simmler

Half-length figure of a boy in profile to the left
Józef Simmler

Half-length figure of young man in a hat
Józef Simmler

Sketch of a nude male
Józef Simmler

Studium rzeźby ‘Wenus Medycejska’
Józef Simmler

Study of Both Hands of the Bishop for the Painting ‘The Oath of Queen Jadwiga’
Józef Simmler

Study of female nudes to figures of three Marys for the painting ‘Three Marys’
Józef Simmler

Nude male study to the painting ‘King David playing the harp’
Józef Simmler






