The text is a notice from the bookseller regarding a translation of Rubens' work on human proportions. The bookseller explains that the original translation from Latin to French was poorly done, prompting a new translation. It is clarified that Rubens never intended for the manuscript to be published, as it was merely a collection of materials.
NOTICE FROM THE BOOKSELLER
The translation of this work by Rubens on the proportions of the human figure, which I present to the Public, owes its existence to the purchase I made at Mr. Huquier's sale towards the end of last year, of the copper plates engraved according to the designs traced by Rubens' own hand for the comprehension of his manuscript. Attached to these plates was a copy of the discourse in Latin, with its translation into French; but it was so poorly done, full of inaccuracies, and so inconsistent with the original that I had to abandon it and resolve to make a new translation myself based on Rubens' text.
People may be surprised that this work, which has caused so much excitement among enthusiasts, and which was eagerly awaited by artists with a kind of impatience, corresponded so little to the high expectation formed of it, and the great reputation of its Author, who was learned and well-versed in letters and possessed a superior talent for painting. However, it must be noted that this manuscript was never composed by Rubens with the intention of publishing it; it was merely a repertoire in which he
Translation Notes
- The term 'répertoire' is used, which can translate to 'inventory' or 'record'. Here it signifies a collection of materials rather than a completed work.