Figure Drawing
Richard G. Hatton
Dover Publications
Quote from back of book, "the book stresses how the figure sketcher should handle his subject, how he should actually put down surface lines and prominences on paper." That is the difference between this and most other anatomy books, always keeping in mind the relationship of anatomical facts and their relevance in drawing the figure.

The book begins by explaining the study of form: what lines mean, the use of planes, and proportion. His philosophy is very different than the usual art instruction book, and this book is filled with many useful quotes: "If you begin to model, you may either regard the form as built up of planes, or '...' rounded forms. Both of these predilections are wrong, as well as right;the planes make too many sharp edges, the round masses make none at all. One would say, side with truth, not with imaginary standards, especially as they seem to be proving false. But the draughtsman must begin somewhere." Most writers won't admit to this common sense kind of thinking.

The bulk of the text, of course, deals with the figure, and goes over: the basic forms and masses of each part, the bones and muscles, and which lines are most important in drawing the part. The book ends with a chapter on drapery, which would usually require a second book. Highly recommended.