This text discusses the importance of accurately portraying the alignment of limbs and the overall posture in human figures. It emphasizes that the more precisely these aspects are observed, the more excellence can be achieved in painting. The text contrasts properly proportioned figures with those that appear weak or improperly rendered, stressing the importance of realistic and convincing depictions.
About Human Figures.
There are many instances in which the arrangement of the limbs, according to the specified action of the figure, must be correct; otherwise, a severe mismatch will be detected: As the person is, so are his strengths. And as this is one of the most important observations in human studies, one can be assured that the more precisely this is taken into account, the more excellence will be brought about in the art of painting, where common artistic minds will have to admit their limitations. Certainly, many who were not aware of the satisfactory expression in their figures, even though they thought they had determined it well, have no other reason than a lack of proper application of principles. Who does not know when creating a figure for a heavy task, in which one does not see enough ability concerning the configuration of the limbs, or good posture of movement, that it is impossible to convincingly imagine that such a figure is truly engaged in that action as it should be; rather, it will appear to us very weak, poorly shaped, inexperienced in handling, or sick. In contrast, when we see a strong and robust person, proportionally well-formed, performing a weak, timid, and delicate action, where his entire ability was completely wasted; how could it be otherwise than that the observer sees it differently, as if a fool or charlatan were making some grimaces. Moreover, one will find in such a figure that its virtuous action and beautiful-
Translation Notes:
- "Menschebeelden" translates to "Human Figures."
- "Ledenstemmingh" refers to the alignment or arrangement of the limbs.