Fifth Part

A Wise Way to Draw All Kinds of Birds in a Very Easy Method

When I reached the first part of this treatise of mine, I noted for the youth who are interested in this art of drawing various birds, gladly offering instruction. Therefore, I recorded various techniques so that one might easily delineate birds quickly. For everything created has its proportion, and birds in particular have their measurements, much like terrestrial animals or mythical creatures. We will provide a general rule for observing and capturing the forms of several birds, including the notable Crane, Swan, Stork, Owl, Calidris, and others. This is so artists may grasp and proportion the others they want to depict.

I. Problem

Drawing from long experience and knowledge of nature, I have learned that there is nothing in creation, as God made it, that does not share a likeness with figures like the human form. You can see it by examining them. Thus, we begin by establishing the proportion of a bird such as an eagle. For the drawing process, create a parallelogram C as it approximates the curving form of its body. In this way, the first step is to sketch the bird before proceeding to more intricate details.

II. Problem

Of Another Type of Bow with Long Necks

Birds like Swans and Pelicans with long necks should be observed and proportioned carefully, paying attention to their unique shapes.

III. Problem

In Which Swans, Wild Ducks, and Similar Types Are Discussed

Among all birds, the Swan is the most graceful in form and can be drawn as such. Notice how their necks curve elegantly like a capital S. They point this towards their natural fluidity.

IV. Problem

Peacocks, Pheasants, and Other Ornamental Birds

These birds have rich decorations and vivid feathers. Pay particular attention to their oval shapes for realistic drawings.

V. Problem

Of the Coloring of Birds

Observe their multicolored feathers, noto the distinct coloration which is part of their charm.

An introduction to drawing all sorts of birds in their natural forms with artistic interpretation.

I conclude with observations on creating forms and realistic depictions of different birds, being attentive to detail and proportion as much as possible.

Translation Notes: Some technical terms relating to bird anatomy and drawing techniques were clarified to match modern English equivalents. The description of shapes like "parallelogram" might refer to outlining techniques or tools used historically.