The Principles

Sometimes, it leads them somewhat astray. This Method produces a good effect for both parties, being equally advantageous, and it brings greater respect to the Master. Truthfully, one can already notice if a young boy has a good memory, which is a valuable gift; it helps discover the intentions of his parents who might not want him to pursue painting. We must admit that not all minds are equally suited for it. But one cannot judge too quickly; because apprentices must first be firm in their drawing, and make progress in understanding the outlines, the figures, and the exterior of objects. Later, they are given more difficult examples. They are trained to handle the brush, putting them in a state to paint human figures, which are the most perfect creations of this world. Therefore, they should first know how to draw all parts perfectly with the marvelous arrangement and alignments that strengthen them. Then, one will discover their talents, like in a faithful mirror, showing what they can execute one day. At least, if they first learn to skillfully trace all these parts according to the rules of art, everything else will come naturally. However, this method may not please many people, who, by claiming they don't want to make simple draftsmen out of their children, are missing out. This occupation prevents their children from running around in the streets. Today, everyone admits this noble exercise is very useful; as it helps uncover the talents of the youth; whether they possess a natural aptitude for geometry, painting, architecture, goldsmithing, or any profession requiring some intellect; besides, drawing greatly aids in training sight and forming judgment. I may say there is no art or science where hands are not as necessary as they are for helping us walk. Despite all this, it is observed that the rich and distinguished should first have their children learn to dance and sing, and when they become stronger, teach them fencing and horseback riding: exercises concerning the body, while neglecting those that perfect the mind and surprise others more, as the soul is more excellent than the body. Thus, children are raised without care for their minds; perhaps out of excessive passion for wealth. But what use is it for them to be ruins of a noble and illustrious family if fortune turns its back on them; they have nothing left, as if they lost everything. Here, one can quote Caron: 'Wealth is fleeting, Art is eternal'; meaning, wealth disappears, but industry and science remain. Moreover, nothing calms the youthful ardor better than this noble exercise. Even lions, the fiercest of all animals, become tame over time. Anything that pleasantly occupies one tempers passions, and a gentle nature opposed to a flighty mind forms a wonderful temperament; as was already suggested. The Ancients believed that the sour and sweet combined made the Nectar of the Gods. Thus, when parents see that their children applying themselves to our art become wiser, not favoring running in the streets over staying in the room where they take pleasure in their work, it seems their masters should let them progress freely, especially if the masters are skillful in their profession and determined to neglect nothing in the instruction of their pupils. When progress is made by both master and disciple, both are equally encouraged. One does not become skilled without effort or desire to learn. This eager passion needs less instruction, just as a healthy body needs fewer remedies. I've found that a cheerful mind succeeds better in painting than a gloomy, melancholic one. Inclination combined with liveliness always made extraordinary men, particularly in this noble art, which is so vast.

Translation Notes

1. "Dessein" is translated as "drawing" but can also imply "design" or "plan." 2. "Esprit" can mean "spirit" or "mind," depending on context.