The Pocket Lavater; or, The Science of Physiognomy / To which is added an inquiry into the analogy existing between brute and human physiognomy

by Johann Caspar Lavater; Giambattista della Porta

Fig. III.

This figure represents the striking similitude between man and the ass.

A round and convex forehead, says Aristotle, is a sign of stupidity. Polemon and Adamantius say, that the high and round forehead denotes stupidity and impudence, the true characteristics of a clown. Albert and Conciliator were also of opinion that such a forehead denotes dullness.

Long ears are a sign that their possessor is extremely foppish, both in language and action; but indicate, also, a good memory. According to Aristotle, such ears denote a disposition like that of the ass. Polemon and Adamantius say, they denote a dull disposition. Albert, having borrowed his idea from Loxus, assures us that long ears denote stupidity and impudence. Rhases says they are a sign of foolishness and longevity, which was also the opinion of Pliny.

According to the opinion of Rhases and Conciliator, he whose face is long is slow and lazy. Albert says, that such a one is cowardly and sensual, slow in his motions, lazy, and sometimes stubborn.

The under lip, when it advances more than the upper, is a sign that the possessor thinks about a great many vain things, and cherishes vulgar or unpolished ideas: such was the opinion of Polemon and Adamantius. Albert says it does not express a malicious spirit, but impudence and simplicity. I maintain that it is a mark of imprudence. Albert further adds, (from Loxus,) that when it happens in a small mouth, it denotes a thirst for praise and honour.

We have united all these signs in the same head, (Figure 3,) which will be found to correspond exactly with that of the ass, to which it may be compared.

Aristotle does not approve of those eyes that are very prominent, and seem almost to start from the head; and he writes to Alexander, that he whose eyes are similar to those of the ass is destitute of sense. Galen was of a similar opinion. Polemon and Adamantius do not think that such eyes betray a laudable disposition, and Rhases says, that they denote one shameless, dull, and loquacious. Pliny asserts that they are the signs by which a dunce may be known.