The Principles of Drawing

Twelfth Lesson

We have nothing more to say to our Student, except about the posture they must hold to conveniently see the Figures they want to draw, which may be at varying heights. Whatever they have in front of their eyes and wish to imitate, they should always observe the method shown here in the Example of the Bottle. 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 the same way for which they're working, without moving their head up or down; because aside from the time loss this causes, it distracts and misaligns the eye. Regarding the distance one must keep, it should be proportional to the object's size; the larger it is, the further one must be from it; as we’ll discuss later when we speak about Drawing from nature.

It is time for our young Student to engage in drawing the Model in large that they are given in small, or as they see in large; since it is crucial that they practice judging proportions correctly, and that, through long practice, their Eye serves as both Ruler and Compass.

When Students have reached this point and have thoroughly learned what we have just taught, it is appropriate for them to evaluate 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, which, aided by Heaven, one cannot master, provided there is inclination and one uses a good method.

Therefore, their Fathers or Tutors ought to find skilled Teachers to help them succeed in their chosen path, as their success depends on the Teacher's skill. It is greatly desirable for those expecting Children to heed this Advice, the practice of which would bring us, as in Italy, France, and elsewhere, good Artists & excellent Teachers, who would bring forth many good Talents present in these Provinces, who become wasted or dull due to the negligence of Fathers or Tutors. Indeed, a well-cultivated, manured, and sown Field always produces good Grain.

Figure No. 1.

Translation Notes:

1. "Bouteille" - translated as "Bottle." In historical texts, it might refer more generally to a cylindrical object or a simple visual example for instructional purposes.