Stock Broker's Signals

A 1912 art-instructional booklet says these drawings of hands were "taken from an article illustrating stock-brokers' signals. The artist in this case has not attempted to obtain graceful hands, by any means, but simply expressive ones. This has been obtained largely by drawing them in an anatomical manner, paying particular attention to the bony structure. The knuckles show out very strongly, which puts on one side all possibility of softness or grace, and makes them hard and angular. but, at the same time, very strong and vigorous."

From "Instruction Paper on Strength, Expression and Grace in Hands, Limbs, Etc." published by the School of Applied Art, Battle Creek, Michigan. 

Thanks, James!