The text discusses the measured proportions in art, particularly focusing on male and female figures. It describes how the female figure can be depicted with 9 views compared to the male's 10, and elaborates on the historical context with references to antique beliefs about Goddess Vesta's proportions. The idea of artistic refinement for young learners is also mentioned with a reference to Lomazzo's views.
Measured Proportions of Limbs
Image: The most noticeable difference found from the Breast-Nipple to the end of the Lower Abdomen: The rest depended on the Length of the Lines. However, the Female Proportion of 9 Views, which corresponds to the Male figure of 10 Heads: And also a length of 7 1/2 Heads is, pleases us best among all his Models. Therefore, we intended to apply that after his Drawing. We believe that those who will bother to view the same, can easily judge that both regard themselves in terms of the General Division of their Length, as well as the specific Proportion of the subordinate Parts in their width, by the added Measurements and Numbers explaining adequately, so that no broader Description is needed. For whether the Female figure is less troubled with Teaching Rules and Measurement Lines than it could be, we believe that everything can be seen and completed from the Discourse-Sketch of the Male figure. And although the Antique Image-Makers believed they had good reason to give the Goddess Vesta the Proportion of seven Heads; they judged this Measurement as fitting for the great Mother of the Earth, and thus concluded the Majesty of a Woman: yet they did not adequately consider that Proportion to other Goddesses, Sybils, or Prophetesses; Knowing that they needed a more sensual and graceful Language. Therefore, the aforementioned Lomazzo wants to offer the Youths and Maidens, a certain Refinement, which stems from the Paternal narrow-bounded Age, and the Maternal or Feminine grace, ...
Translation Notes
Vesta: A reference to the Roman goddess of hearth, home, and family, emphasizing the serenity and proportion associated with female figures in art. Lomazzo: Refers to Giovanni Paolo Lomazzo, a Milanese painter and writer on art theory, known for his works on artistic style and proportions.