Here are some key ratios depicted in the Vitruvian Man:
1. Square and Circle Alignment:
The figure is inscribed within both a square and a circle.
2. Arm Span and Height:
The distance from fingertip to fingertip with outstretched arms is equal to the height of the figure from head to toe.
3. Navel to Ground and Navel to Head:
The distance from the navel to the ground is equal to the distance from the navel to the top of the head.
4. Head to Body Ratio:
The height of the head is approximately one-eighth of the total height of the figure.
In the texts on the lower section of the Vitruvian Man, it is written:
from above the chest to the top of the head is one-sixth of the height of a man.
from above the chest to the hairline is one-seventh of the height of a man.
the maximum width of the shoulders is a quarter of the height of a man.
from the breasts to the top of the head is a quarter of the height of a man.
the distance from the elbow to the tip of the hand is a quarter of the height of a man.
the distance from the elbow to the armpit is one-eighth of the height of a man.
the length of the hand is one-tenth of the height of a man.
the root of the penis is at half the height of a man.
from below the foot to below the knee is a quarter of the height of a man.
from below the knee to the root of the penis is a quarter of the height of a man.
These ratios contribute to the overall sense of balance and symmetry in the representation of the human form. While these are some of the most emphasised ratios, Leonardo’s study of proportions extended beyond these specific measurements. Vitruvian Man reflects his dedication to understanding the mathematical relationships governing the human body and serves as a visual expression of the ideal proportions according to Vitruvian principles.