Essays on physiognomy

John Caspar Lavater (1741-1801), a Swiss poet, writer and philosopher, 'was the last and most influential of the descriptive physiognomists', a class of pseudo-scientists who attempted to ascertain character on the basis of physical features. He introduced the idea that physiognomy related to the specific character traits of individuals, rather than general types. He placed specific emphasis on the structure of the head, particularly the forehead, which influenced later theories of phrenology.

This lavishly illustrated work also influenced many artists of the period, both in the overall creation of portraits, and in the use of his physiognomical theories to construct individual faces in historical paintings. This work became hugely popular and established Lavater's reputation throughout Europe. It was translated into several languages.