The text discusses the observation and representation of facial positions in art. It describes how heads and faces can be depicted in different tilts and orientations, with emphasis on maintaining correct proportion and alignment. It also covers the role of the observer’s eye and perspective in capturing these variations in facial expression.
Artistic Study of Faces
Figures, their position can often be observed sufficiently: For the second points to the situation bending either backward or forward. The third shows the bending to the side. And the last, an example of a Head that is tilted in both directions. Consider the Sketch, and visualize strongly everything we have said so far; without confusing the Circle in your mind; or practice making clear variations with your Hand, and you will see more than if we were to further undertake to explain with many words. The last examples will give greater clarity to the first ones if you understand them even a little.
Before we even get to the posing itself, wherein we must align the Parts in various Positions precisely on the lines of their Cross, and in their suitable Proportion, we still need to keep in mind some necessary things we previously mentioned: Because it must be observed that the complete variety of Heads and Faces must be derived, either from their movement, with the Observer's Eye fixed and immovable, or from the movement of the Observer's own Eye, across different Viewpoints, where it could be supposed to be; Keeping the observed Head unchanged. Or also in the third instance from the movement of both combined: Keeping the Manner of bending or tilting of the Heads in various positions, whether the change comes from observing the movement; noted in general; But yet with the distinction, that (besides the changes in the Lines of the Cross regarding the Eyes
Translation Notes
“Tronie” is an old term referring to a face or facial expression, notably used in artistic contexts.