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
Here we see a countenance that evinces a capacity for great
achievements--in which patriotism and heroic virtue, worthy of ancient
Rome, are distinguishable; but it must be observed, that although it
promises fair, still it marks the man to be liable to the failings of
humanity, and often subject to be hurried by violence of passion, and
false notions of honour, beyond the bounds of reason.
This aquiline nose, curved at the root, is indicative of an imperious
and fiery temper; the cavity at the base of the forehead is not
sufficiently large, and there is too slight a projection of the bone of
the eye;--hence we may predict, that if the person of whom we are
speaking takes to improper courses, it will be difficult to restore him
to the path of rectitude.
[Illustration: 12]
No. XII.
This is a head in which the observer will recognise a philosopher; but
he may search in vain for indications of courage--still less for that
heroic boldness which is the parent of brilliant achievement; the
outline of the nose, which is without swell or compass, and the sinking
at its root, which is too wide and deep, forbid such an inference. There
is, however, observable in this face, a delicacy of sentiment easy to be
wounded, and it indicates a mind qualified for profound and philosophic
researches.
[Illustration: 13]
No. XIII.
Phlegmatic people are generally distinguishable by the following
signs:--the contour of their features is plump and round, but neither
bold nor prominent; their eyebrows are small and elevated, and their
lips soft and thick; these characteristics are always accompanied with
blue and vacant eyes: the head, in persons of this description, is often
round; and the skin almost white and colourless; their hair is generally
of a light or chesnut colour, and curls spontaneously; their convex
forehead proclaims them incapable of energy; and they are very
frequently stout, tall, and plump: it would seem as though nature had
been beneficent to the body at the expense of the mind, so sluggishly
does the latter perform its functions; and yet the exertions of the
former are equally dull and spiritless.
[Illustration: 14]
No. XIV.
This broad, square forehead, betokens a strong memory, and a fund of
good sense; but its perpendicular form denotes a degree of inflexibility
which may degenerate into obstinacy; the slight projection of the lower
lip, and the flatness of the chin, are indicative of good nature.
This is the visage of a prudent, discerning man; of one devoid of poetic
genius, and whose writings will never attain to sublimity; but,
persevering and resolute, he can turn his mind to every subject, and
may render himself conspicuous in a deliberative assembly; he is
peculiarly calculated for profound and laborious investigation.
[Illustration: 15]
No. XV.
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