Anatomical Studies: a left forearm in two positions and a right forearm. Artist: Peter Paul Rubens (Flemish, Siegen 1577-1640 Antwerp). Dimensions: sheet: 10 15/16 x 7 5/16 in. (27.8 x 18.6 cm). Date: ca. 1600- ca. 1605.This impressive sheet demonstrates Rubens' understanding of the human body and his commitment to rigorous anatomical study of the sort pioneered in the Italian Renaissance. The same powerful left arm and hand appears in two positions; each view exposes in detail the structure of the underlying muscles, bones, and blood vessels. A right arm and hand is partly concealed beneath one bulky arm, and views of the left shoulder seen from above are drawn in different degrees of finish.Rubens (1577-1640), one of the definitive masters of Baroque painting, had a humanist education and a deep admiration for the accomplishments of Michelangelo and other Italian artists. Like them, he used his command of anatomy to design figures in dramatic poses seen from unusual angles. Evidence