Observations appliquées au système de Lavater, N°4

Observations appliquées au système de Lavater, N°4

Lithograph on paper from the celebrated series "Observations Applied to the System of Lavater," inspired by the physiognomic studies of Johann Caspar Lavater (1741–1801).
Engraved by Michel Delaporte, the plate compares human and animal features—the lion and the owl—to illustrate the widespread belief between the 18th and 19th centuries that facial features revealed moral and psychological inclinations.

On the left, the man is juxtaposed with the lion, a symbol of strength, courage, and judgment; on the right, with the owl, an emblem of introspection, slowness, and melancholy. The figures are arranged in progressive sequences that demonstrate the transition from animal to human, according to an almost evolutionary interpretation of temperaments. In the center, two crossed pens emphasize the analytical and graphic dimension of physiognomic research.

Period: First half of the 19th century
Technique: Lithograph on paper
Signature: by Michel Delaporte (bottom center)
Dimensions: approx. 27 × 33 cm
Condition: Signs of aging, light creases, and yellowing consistent with age.

A rare example of 19th-century pseudoscientific illustration, where art, philosophy, and anthropology intertwine in a fascinating visual interpretation of the human character.