GS
The meaning of the word has changed, as so often happens.Perhaps the old meaning makes more sense?

Handsome \Hand"some\ (?; 277), a. [Compar. Handsomer; superl.
   Handsomest.] [Hand + -some. It at first meant, dexterous;
   cf. D. handzaam dexterous, ready, limber, manageable, and E.
   handy.]
   1. Dexterous; skillful; handy; ready; convenient; -- applied
      to things as persons. [Obs.]