The text discusses the appropriate representation of muscles in artistic figures. It suggests that pronounced muscles are unsuitable for elegant forms and are only necessary for robust figures like laborers and soldiers. It emphasizes softer muscle depiction in women and minimal emphasis on muscles in children to maintain their youthful appearance.
Art and Function of Muscles
In the representation of figures, which should appear elegant and noble, with a moderate length, large and pronounced muscles should never be depicted. Those who have little or weak flesh on their bones cannot display such features. As nature is not accustomed to carrying an egg on a bur (uneven surface), she does not provide strong tools to a person who is delicate and designed for less strenuous work. Muscles are only necessary for robust bodies, such as slaves, laborers, and wrestlers; likewise, for active soldiers. Young bodies are graceful, smooth, and supple in both flesh and skin, yet the elderly are often rough, uneven, and generally wrinkled.
In the representation of women, muscles should be shown with minimal outward appearance, unless in special acts of violence and muscle contraction, where they should be softer and less defined than in men. Those who portray muscles in female figures too prominently usually diminish the appeal of the flesh's softness and the pleasantness of its roundness.
In children's representations, one must wisely handle the depiction of muscles, showing only some of the larger ones, hesitantly, in certain situations; and even less so in female children than in boys. For the less the muscles are emphasized in children, the more they better demonstrate their youth and natural disposition. Otherwise, they may seem older or too aged.
Translation Notes: The term 'Burri' refers to an uneven surface or obstacle. 'Poeffelheyd' describes the pleasant softness of flesh.