The Principles: Seventh Lesson.

It is necessary to carefully copy the examples seen on this plate. The first is an oval, or the shape of an egg. The second is a face divided into different parts. The eyes are at such a distance from each other that a third eye could fit between them. The nose is one-third the length of the face. The mouth is as wide as an eye. The ears are at the level of the eyes at the top, and at the level of the nose at the bottom, regardless of the length or shortness of the face. In the second face, the same division is seen in length and width, but the shape and proportions of the head differ. The first face is one-sixth longer than it is wide, and the second is square. Regarding the hands, they are twice as long as they are wide; each of their parts has its own length, width, and thickness. The length of the foot is one-sixth of a man's height, and it is longer than it is wide. The length of the face and the hands must be exactly equal, and the length accounts for exactly one-tenth of an individual's height. It is important to note that these are the most regular proportions, both in men and women, and while few people resemble this exactly, none are exempt from this rule.

At the same time, I provide other examples, such as the shape of the eyes, nose, mouth, and ears, which should be copied with care and great attention to have a correct idea, and to be able, when we get there, to form a well-proportioned head. I will then provide examples where shadows will be marked, which I call corporeal, to distinguish them from those seen on this plate, which are essentially just contours.

Translation Notes

- "Planche" translates to "plate," a term used historically in art books to describe illustrated pages.
- "Corporels" is translated to "corporeal," indicating a focus on the three-dimensionality of forms.