The text discusses the perception of beauty in art, particularly ancient statues and half-reliefs, which are highly esteemed by art experts. It references historical figures like Cicero and Michelangelo as validation of these ideals. The conclusion notes France's achievements in valuing their own art while respecting past masterpieces.
Beauty of Human Images.
The human studies experts consider the most beautiful is the one that surpasses all others. So much as the name of art connoisseurs and admirers has been carried with truth, they have generally considered that the ancient remnants of good statue images and half-rounds, and what was made in the golden age of painting and sculpture, are to be held as the most beautiful in art and the best and most complete examples for students. This truth, noticed by the diligent Mr. Jan de Bisschop, he also confessed openly in the dedication of his fifty-first issued statues, acknowledging that through long experience, he was more and more confirmed in that feeling. For he says, whether we base our opinions on the esteem and high value paid throughout the ages for such art images (as reported by Cicero, Pliny, and other men of knowledge; besides daily experience they can testify): or whether we observe Raphael of Urbino, Michelangelo, and such masters, confirming the same not only in words but also in deeds, we will find that they have directed their entire practice towards this. Indeed, they sometimes did not hesitate to incorporate entire sections into their works; thus becoming more robbers than followers. Truly, he continues, there is no other reason that France, now in the act of spinning its crown, has brought it so far, that in Rome it has observed the Old Grand-images well and held their own successor Pouffs in high esteem and received him with much honor.
Translation Notes:
"Messchkunde" is translated as 'human studies'.