University of Virginia Library


252

Physiognomy, n.

[_]

The art of determining the character of another by the resemblances and differences between his face and our own, which is the standard of excellence.

[“There is no art,” says Shakspeare, foolish man]

“There is no art,” says Shakspeare, foolish man,
“To read the mind's construction in the face.”
The physiognomists his portrait scan,
And say: “How little wisdom here we trace!
He knew his face disclosed his mind and heart,
So, in his own defence, denied our art.”
Lavatar Shunk.