The text discusses the dynamics of standing and walking, focusing on the balance and engagement of muscles to achieve a graceful posture, specifically referring to a stance known as "Spranger's grip." It emphasizes the importance of understanding muscle function and body alignment, crucial for artists rendering human figures. Observations from anatomical models offer valuable insights into foot placement and body balance.
Various Positions of Movement
It is observed that certain strolling positions, known by the name "Spranger's grip," are familiar in walking. Artists like Symon Vouet and other French masters have remarked on this style. Indeed, those who pay attention to the balance of parts and the functioning of muscles will notice how a figure stood gracefully on one foot bears weight on it, with the muscles that bend the foot and toes being engaged. These muscles support balance and prevent excessive movement or stumbling: even if someone imagines they can stand this way, we maintain that it represents a weak and unstable posture, especially evident in painting. There is a plaster cast of an anatomical model at hand, where the details about foot placement inform our learning remarkably well.
Let us also consider the previous depiction. If the left shoulder veers far from its central line, as shown in example C, the right hip will shift backwards correspondingly. This balance is essential to maintain the body's symmetrical posture. We can sufficiently discern from the depiction how the left foot is lifted, with the body bending over to one side of the midline; it remains to observe how, in this stance, the lifted leg is supported by the front foot.
Translation Notes: "Spranger's grip" refers to a specific stance known in artistic circles of the time. The text explores concepts of balance and muscle engagement crucial for artists studying figure drawing and sculpture.