N.058 - Chironomia

Chironomy is the art of moving the hands in acting or public speaking. In the Neapolitan language, this gestural dance accompanies speech through a system of latent codes, a surreal mimicry where subtle movements turn into expressive tensions, and playful improvisations shape the rhythm of conversation. In the history of cinema, Totò stands as a master of this expressive language, able to transcend social boundaries and embody the gestures of Neapolitan popular culture. The black-and-white illustration presents a stylized portrait of him, surrounded by numerous hands in different positions. Drawn with a vibrant, dynamic line, they express the richness of Neapolitan gesture, the defining element of chironomy.