The text discusses the concept of beauty in human figures, emphasizing that the beauty of limbs can enhance a face, while deformities can detract from it. It notes that some artists seek beauty in unconventional ways, preferring different body forms. The importance of bones being covered with flesh is highlighted to achieve true beauty, as per the classical ideals.
Beauty of Human Images
The happiness of his blushing cheeks remarkably matched his bright youthful face, yet the indescribable beauty of his body was completely overshadowed and extinguished. It is concluded that the beauty of the limbs can glorify a fine face significantly; conversely, the deformed parts of the body can greatly diminish the beauty of the face when seen together. It happens that an unattractive face can still have graceful and proud limbs, redeeming it in a way. Similarly, a charming face is often enough to find a match for a crooked or awkward person.
Some artists search for beauty in incorrect or false qualities; some might prefer plumpness as the best form while others seek a more refined waist, thinking to find it in slender lines. Such observations are noted among artists who attempt to temper unwieldy approaches to representation. One among them speaks of the integrity of the human body, especially of men, elegantly phrased: Although he states the human body cannot lack bones, and although they are connected through nerves, tendons, and ligaments, they should still be covered with flesh. True beauty is attributed to those whose bodies do not reveal veins or visible bones...
Translation Notes: The term "Tronie" refers to a character or face, and "Schoonheyd" refers to beauty, specifically in a classical sense. "Konstenaeren" translates to artists.