55th Annual Delaware Show

Figs. 5, 6. From Johann Caspar Lavater, Essays on Physiognomy: Designed to Promote the Knowledge and the Love of Mankind (London: Printed for John Murray, 1789−98). Winterthur Library RBR BF843 L39* Expanded access to ancient Greek and Roman imagery undoubtedly played a lead role in the surge of silhouettes during the late eighteenth century. Yet, a contemporary (and completely different) book further enhanced the popularity of the form by drawing connections between the shape of one’s head and the quality of one’s character. Proclaiming the portrait silhouette to be the most faithful form of portraiture, Johann Caspar Lavater’s Essays on Physiognomy sent readers flocking to have their silhouettes taken so that they could be shared with Lavater in hopes of a positive reading of their character (figs. 5, 6). — 30 —