The text explores the perception and analysis of beauty in human figures using various examples from mythology, like Hercules, Apollo, and Antinous. It emphasizes the strengths and characteristics depicted in these figures, touching on themes of grace, strength, and the perception of beauty across different forms and ages. The author suggests that despite the difficulty, life itself offers the best example to follow in achieving beauty and perfection, as seen in the work of ancient masters.
Beauty of Human Figures
Examining my own judgment, though weak, and barely understanding a part of that Art, and as if through a mist seeing, yet turning my dimming eyes, I perceive in the Image of Hercules, the joints of more than human strength: In the Wrestlers and Fencers, the strength is required there: In Laocoon a steadfast Age. In Antinous a faint gracefulness of Body, nearly Feminine: in Apollo a well-made Youth: In Bacchus round-turned Limbs, in Satyrs and Fauns solidity of flesh; and in Women now a slender, then a well-nourished and supple Body depicted: Reflecting on the various ages, stance, gesture, being, clothing, and more; I cannot wonder enough at the great Beauty in each, and equally the distinction in all, accompanied with the greatest simplicity, and many more commendable virtues: Which how great and many they are, is to be guessed from this, that the greatest Masters in making one or another part, in restoring any broken Image, seldom or hardly ever satisfied themselves or others, and very difficultly ventured this. Yet it was not rejected the sentiment of those who drive that Life itself, is the best Example, and most necessary to follow; as whence the great perfection of the Ancients, has its origin. And even now, it is appropriate to seek from this: But where the Ancients very precisely in such diversity of Life, where Beauty is mixed with the priceless, often in one Body have sought the most Beautiful thing, this can rightly be well named the best Guide: Not with the aim to be exaggerated.