The text discusses the importance of positioning figures in art, emphasizing that artists must ensure their depictions align with both artistic style and realism, particularly in regards to the structure of limbs. It notes that influential artists historically advised students to focus on this aspect. The text mentions Karel van Mander's and Leonardo da Vinci's contributions to the subject, albeit with some remaining pieces lacking order.
Positioning of the Figures
In order for the artist and painter who finds themselves well accomplished to have the means in hand to determine their images in all kinds of circumstances and choices, so that the aims of their intended work are never contrary to the artistic style or the feasibility of the action, concerning the structure and assembly of the limbs. Since this is one of the most important aspects of painting, all great and wise masters have not only taken it to heart to act wisely here but many have diligently advised their students to pay close attention to it continuously: And even more so when they found themselves devoid of instructions in the books and examples. Karel van Mander, who was a better writer and speaker than painter, said in his time that it was desirable for someone to provide instruction on the positioning of the figures, according to the works, the selection of actions, and the expression of emotions. And he said that he would have gladly done so himself if he had found himself capable. It is noted with truth about Leonardo da Vinci that he presented many things regarding this subject, but to our knowledge, only bits and pieces without order or coherence remain as he had thrown them into his memory in rough form; or if something was contributed that he dealt with these using barely legible scripts and mostly hidden writings that one must read later, it remains somewhat questionable. And like the great Nicolas Poussin...
Translation Notes
"Teykenkundige Trek" could be interpreted as "artistic style" or "technical drawing aspect." "Herts-togten" translates to "emotions," though it literally means "heart journeys." "Slegts" is a historic Dutch variant spelling of "slechts," meaning "only."