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Seven Discourses on Art by Sir Joshua Reynolds
page 112 of 129 (86%)
seldom any relish for those arts which address themselves to the fancy,
the rectitude and truth of which is known by another kind of proof: and
we may add that the acquisition of this knowledge requires as much
circumspection and sagacity, as to attain those truths which are more
open to demonstration. Reason must ultimately determine our choice on
every occasion; but this reason may still be exerted ineffectually by
applying to taste principles which, though right as far as they go, yet
do not reach the object. No man, for instance, can deny that it seems at
first view very reasonable, that a statue which is to carry down to
posterity the resemblance of an individual should be dressed in the
fashion of the times, in the dress which he himself wore: this would
certainly be true if the dress were part of the man. But after a time
the dress is only an amusement for an antiquarian; and if it obstructs
the general design of the piece, it is to be disregarded by the artist.
Common sense must here give way to a higher sense.

In the naked form, and in the disposition of the drapery, the difference
between one artist and another is principally seen. But if he is
compelled to the modern dress, the naked form is entirely hid, and the
drapery is already disposed by the skill of the tailor. Were a Phidias
to obey such absurd commands, he would please no more than an ordinary
sculptor; since, in the inferior parts of every art, the learned and the
ignorant are nearly upon a level.

These were probably among the reasons that induced the sculptor of that
wonderful figure of Laocoon to exhibit him naked, notwithstanding he was
surprised in the act of sacrificing to Apollo, and consequently ought to
be shown in his sacerdotal habits, if those greater reasons had not
preponderated. Art is not yet in so high estimation with us as to obtain
so great a sacrifice as the ancients made, especially the Grecians, who
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