Drawing and proportions of the human figure model from antiquity to the renaissance

Architecture is a complex system composed of parts and elements which interact with one another. As Vitruvius claims: 'The design of a temple depends on symmetry, the principles of which must be most carefully observed by the architect. They are due to proportion /.../ Without symmetry and proportion there can be no principle in the design of any temple; that is, if there is no precise relation between its members, as in the case of those of a well shaped man. […] Therefore, if it is agreed that the numerical system was found out from the members of the human body, and that there is a symmetrical correspondence between the members separately and the entire form of the body, we can have nothing but respect for those who, in constructing temples for the immortal gods, have so arranged the members of the works that both the separate parts and the whole design may harmonize in their proportions and symmetry.' In order to understand a work of architecture in depth and comprehend it meaning in relation to time and the context of its construction, it is necessary to recognize everything that imposes unity on the system. Thus the system of relations which connect all the parts has to be brought out with reference to geometric matrices, orthogonal grids, proportional and golden relations which make for the unity of the composition of the whole. It is moreover necessary to explain the modality which defines the sketch (drawing). Referring again to Vitruvius - who says: 'Thus in the human body there is a kind of symmetrical harmony between forearm, foot, palm, finger, and other small parts; and so it is with perfect buildings' - we have decided to enquire into the representation of the human form which then lies at the foundations of architectural proportion in various historical epochs. Analyzed in the article are representation systems applied, starting from Egyptian art, passing through the art of ancient Greece, Rome and the Middle Ages and arriving at the most representative moment during the Renaissance when Vitruvius presented the famous „Man of Vitruvius”. Although sketched out by Leonardo da Vinci, it evoked numerous discussions and debates on the subject of proportions. In this epoch more than in any other, man becomes the point of reference for harmony and proportion. The human body was inscribed into the structure of plants and analyzed for the purpose of studying proportions of order and so it seems particularly interesting to study its proportions in depth.