The Principles of Drawing
Twelfth Lesson
We have nothing more to say to our Student, except about the posture they should adopt to conveniently see the Figures they wish to draw, whether they are positioned at varying heights. Whatever they have before their eyes and wish to imitate, they must always observe the method shown in the Bottle Example. When the base of the Object is level with the eye, they should position themselves, either standing or sitting, so they can view the Object just as an artist would, without moving the head up or down; because, besides losing time, it causes distraction and confusion. Regarding the distance one should keep, it must be proportional to the size of the Object; the larger it is, the further one should be; as we will show again in the future when we discuss Drawing from life.
It is time for our young Student to practice drawing the Model given in small form on a larger scale, and seeing the small details in larger size; it is crucial for them to practice assessing proportions accurately, and through long habit, their Eye should serve as a Rule and Compass.
When the Students have achieved this level, and have learned everything we have taught, it is appropriate for them to examine their strengths and talents, to see where their inclinations lead them, and how they intend to establish themselves in the World. For there is no Art or Science where, with the help of Providence, you cannot succeed if you are inclined towards it and follow a good method.
Thus, their Parents or Tutors should find skilled Masters for them, to help them succeed in the choice they have made; since their success depends on the competence of the Master. It is highly recommended for those who have Children benefiting from this Advice, whose practice would bring us, as it does in Italy, France, and elsewhere, good Artists and excellent Masters, which will inspire many good Talents, found in these Provinces, who would otherwise become useless or dull through the negligence of Parents or Tutors. Indeed, a good Field, when well cultivated, fertilized, and sown, always yields good Grain.
Figure N. 1.