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Being a blockhead is dropping the ball
Thomas Eakins called light "the big tool." Any artist who doesn't consider the strength, size, quality and direction of the light source has a snowballs chance in h*ll in succeeding. In order to create the illusion of depth on a two dimensional surface, an artist needs every advantage possible. Not considering the light source is like throwing away the ace of trump while playing Bridge.
In terms of the head being considered a ball. This is simply an analogy which champions the importance of relegating the smaller aspects to a secondary role in relationship to the big form and planes. The approach favored by most untrained artists, of giving prominence to the details, is the mark of the amateur since it results in the inevitable flattening and distortion of form.
Bouguereau said the key was to relegate the small accents to the providence of the big planes. Whether one appreciates the content of his paintings or not, his technical superiority is beyond reproach.
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