The text discusses the correct proportions of the human figure, explaining how the measurement concept of 'eight heads' is applied from the top of the head to the feet. It details dividing the head into four parts for facial measurements, relating lengths of nose, eyes, and mouth positions. Additionally, the text describes how the arm's length is measured in relation to the head, providing specific points of reference like the shoulder and wrist.
METHOD FOR LEARNING
Faced with choosing the proportions of the human figure among the various authors whose opinions we have just reported, we believed it necessary to spare them the trouble by presenting here the measurements followed by the most skilled modern painters and sculptors.
In a mature man, the height is eight heads from the top of the head to the soles of the feet: here is how to measure them. (Plate 7) 1. From the top of the head to the bottom of the chin. 2. From the chin to the hollow of the stomach. 3. From there to the navel. 4. From the navel to the groin. 5. From this point to the bottom of the thighs. 6. From there to below the knee 7. From below the knee to the back of the calf. 8. From this point to the sole of the feet.
The head is divided into four equal parts for the height. (Plate 8.) The first gives the hairline: the second is the line of the eyes: the third gives the length of the nose and ears; finally, dividing the fourth into three equal parts, the mouth is traced on the first division, the second part is the interval between the upper lip and the chin, and the third is for the chin. Thus a head has four nose-lengths in height, and the face contains three. The difference between the head and the face, which is the length of a nose, is for the top of the head where the hair is placed.
The arms, from the shoulder attachment to the chest to the fingertips, have three head lengths; namely, from the shoulder to the crease of the arm, one head; from the arm fold to the base of the wrist, another head: and the third, from this point to the tip of the longest finger of the hand. Marking the lengths
Translation Notes:
The term 'Planc.' refers to 'Plate,' indicating a referenced illustration in the book.