The Pocket Lavater; or, The Science of Physiognomy: To which is added an inquiry into the analogy existing between brute and human physiognomyPorta, Giambattista della
Philosophy
The Pocket Lavater; or, The Science of Physiognomy: To which is added an inquiry into the analogy existing between brute and human physiognomy
Porta, Giambattista della
Physiognomy
A sharp pointed nose is characteristic of a passionate man. (See _pl.
XXII_.)
OF THE MOUTH.
The mouth is the most expressive feature of the face; it is peculiarly
the index to the discovery of character, and almost always represents
the nature and disposition of the man; so delicate are the shades and
varieties of which it is susceptible, that it would be impossible to
describe them with perfect precision.
If the lips are thick and fleshy, this is a sign of sensuality and of
slothfulness; it is always a characteristic of a phlegmatic temper. (See
_pl. XIII_.)
A mouth frequently shut, lips closed, and strongly marked, appertain to
the avaricious. (See _pl. XIX_.)
When the lower lip projects beyond the upper, it denotes negative
goodness. (See _pl. XIV_.)
A closed mouth, concealing the edge of the lips, betokens a person of
application, and inclined to regularity and neatness.
But if, at the same time, it turns up at the extremities, then it
expresses affectation, arrogance, vanity, and malignity.
A large interval between the mouth and nose indicates want of prudence.
Full, distinct, and well-proportioned lips, designate a character
hostile to falsehood, villany, and baseness, but with a propensity to
pleasure.
OF THE CHIN.
An advancing, projecting chin is always a declaration of energy. (See
_pl. XX_.) When pointed, it often denotes craft. (See _pl. I_.)
Should it, on the other hand, recede, it then indicates a character
destitute of firmness.
When it is angular, it betokens a sensible mind, and a benevolent heart.
A flat chin announces coolness of temper. (See _pl. XXVII_.)
A smooth, fleshy, double chin, is indicative of sensuality.
A small chin is characteristic of timidity.
A round, dimpled chin, is a sign of good nature.
OF THE CHEEKS.
Fleshy cheeks denote a proneness to sensuality.
Should we discover in them a certain triangular hollow, it is an
infallible sign of envy and jealousy.
Large and coarse furrows bear the impression of ill nature and
brutality.
OF THE HAIR.
Short, black, coarse, curly hair, evinces a character somewhat
irritable, and often shows it to be devoid of sensibility.
But light, soft hair, is evidence of a contrary disposition, and almost
always denotes gentleness.
A striking contrast between the colour of a man’s hair and his eyebrows
should excite suspicion.
OF THE NECK.
A long neck is declaratory of gentleness.
When short and thick, especially if the veins should be very
conspicuous, it is an indication of a passionate man. (See _pl. XXII_.)
* * * * *
We will now conclude our discussion of the peculiar expression of the
several features, and proceed to connect precept and example, by
exhibiting a variety of physiognomies, and pointing out the different
expressions of character which they display.
[Illustration: 1]
PHYSIOGNOMIES.
No. I.
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