LESSON XVI
THE LEG AND SHOE
THE PROFILE VIEW OF THE LEG
The profile view of the leg forms a reverse curve, the lower part being set well back of the upper. See Figs. 1 and 2. Fig. 1 is the main outline of the leg, being sketched in with broken lines, thus obtaining the general shape and proportion. Fig. 2 is the modeled leg placed on Fig. 1.
In Figs. I and 2 note the vertical line drawn from the upper part to the toes. This shows how far back to place the lower portion. The general direction of the front of the upper portion is out, while the lower part is in, but on this in, you will see a slight out, which does not affect the general direction of the inward curve. The back part of the upper portion is in, but on this also you will see a slight out, which does not change the general direction. The lower portion in the back is a decided out, the calf being a very prominent feature. The knee projects, yet the general direction of this projection slopes toward the back.
Draw Fig. 1, then place Fig. 2 on it carefully. Remember that the muscles of the body form very pretty reverse curves; you must have this feeling in mind in order to obtain the effect. Practice reverse curves with your pencil, going back and forth over the lines. Much practice of this kind will give grace to your work.
THE FRONT VIEW OF THE LEG
The general direction of this view of the leg is in, and yet at the knee and below it, the leg takes the outward direction. The foot also points out. All parts of the inner side are nearly on a line.
The leg is composed of many intricate muscles, two of them only being mentioned here.
The vastus internus (VI) is on the inside and is low, while the vastus externus (VE) is on the outside and is high. The knee fits between these muscles and the lower part of the leg.
Study the lower part of the leg, notice how much higher the outside is than the inside. At the ankle this is reversed, the inside ankle being higher than the outside.
THE BACK VIEW OF THE LEG