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Beautiful Quote by Plutarch

“As in the case of painters, who have undertaken to give us a beautiful and graceful figure, which may have some slight blemishes, we do not wish then to pass over such blemishes altogether, nor yet to mark them too prominently. The one would spoil the beauty, and the other destroy the likeness of…” quote by Plutarch
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“As in the case of painters, who have undertaken to give us a beautiful and graceful figure, which may have some slight blemishes, we do not wish then to pass over such blemishes altogether, nor yet to mark them too prominently. The one would spoil the beauty, and the other destroy the likeness of the picture.”

Plutarch

About This Quote

Source Book: Lives by Plutarch, c. 75 AD

Artists should balance highlighting flaws and preserving overall beauty, avoiding both neglect and overemphasis.

In simple terms: Balance imperfections and overall beauty.

Key Takeaway

Preserve overall beauty while acknowledging flaws.

Themes

art beauty balance criticism perfection

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • museum c
  • art criticism
  • design review
  • personal self‑assessment

Key Concepts

aesthetics integrity moderation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you decide which flaws to highlight?
  • When does correction harm authenticity?
A Different Perspective

Over‑emphasizing flaws can diminish appreciation; ignoring them can mislead.

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