This text discusses techniques for drawing the human figure with a focus on foreshortening, a method that creates an illusion of depth by compressing dimensions. It emphasizes observing proportions and shadows to accurately depict figures, especially when viewed from specific angles such as from the front or side. The explanation includes instructions on maintaining proportionality while drawing lines to achieve the desired perspective effect.
THE SECOND PART PROBLEM VII.
Interior figure of the human body foreshortened from the front, seen from the top view of the feet.
Having observed the proportions and measures, the stretched figure on its side is laid along a marked line, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and then extended along the perpendicular line coming from the extremity of the feet of the figure. Create their limits along the marked perpendicular line, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8. From these points, draw lines parallel to that line to cast the shadow of the figure, over spaces 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8. Always consider the shadow that follows from the front, like the sun on it, to provide the proportions and measures. Observe the shadow in the figure while maintaining the proportions to achieve a foreshortened figure, making the lines perpendicular up to intersections, exactly as presented. The small measure is divided into four equal parts to represent the head's size, which should be smaller than the previous parts for our internal figures.
How a fully stretched male figure with the belly elevated is to be foreshortened, seen from the feet.
Having fully observed the form and measurements of the figures above, the full-length figure stretched and attached to the Water-Line, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, with a shadow above presenting consistent lines, makes a line of work and North-line, containing the points from the inner plane. Following the body above in that manner, create the presentation evenly...
Entire figure of the human body shortened from the front, seen from the sole of the feet upwards.
Having observed the proportions and measurements of the figure seen from the side, marked along the line and then creating diagonal lines through points from the fingers of the said figure. Draw parallel lines to the marked perpendicular line... Use of consideration of forms as if the sun were directly in front, measuring along the figure to achieve the foreshortened appearance, maintaining proportions and measurements in its width, drawing upwards lines perpendicular to intersperse with diagonal measurements to emphasize the reduction or foreshortening of the figure as it stretches out in length.
Translation Notes:
* "Foreshortened" – refers to a perspective technique where an object appears compressed when viewed from a particular angle, typical in 3D representations.
* "Proportions and measures" – understanding dimensions relative to each other in art and drawing.