Here we get to Reality, and to that sort of
correctly-imitative art which is simple enough to explain itself. As a
proof of this, let me point attention to the rig of the ships, the
actions of the sailors, and, more than all, to Columbus himself. Weeks
of the most laborious consultation of authorities of which the artist
is capable, have been expended over the impersonation of that one
figure,--expended, I would say, in obtaining that faithful
representation of individual character, which it is my earnest desire
to combine with the higher or mystic element. One instance of this
fidelity to Nature I may perhaps be permitted to point out in the
person of Columbus, in conclusion. Pray observe him, standing
rapturously on the high stern of his vessel--and oblige me, at the same
time, by minutely inspecting his outstretched arms. First, however, let
me remind you that this great man went to sea at the age of fourteen,
and cast himself freely into all the hardships of nautical life; next,
let me beg you to enter into my train of thought, and consider these
hardships as naturally comprising, among other things, industrious
haulings at ropes and manful tuggings at long oars; and, finally, let
me now direct your attention to the manner in which the muscular system
of the famous navigator is developed about the arms in anatomical
harmony with this idea.
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