Physiognomy

Physiognomy

Della Porta, Giambattista: De humana physiognomonia libri IIII (Vico Equense: Apud Iosephum Cacchium, 1586).

The picture of the man compared to the dog at the top shows that he may be sly. To me, the type of dog shown can be extremely cunning. Although this trait is evident, dogs also have a sense of loyalty, which shows in the man's eyes. The size of the man's face compared to the rest of his head makes him seem timid, just like this type of dog is, to me.

The picture of the man compared to the cow on the bottom can suggest to him being dim-witted. The large tufts of hair make him seem docile, like a tame cow. His eyes show a boredom, just like the look that cows often get. His ears and the longness in his face are very similar traits to the cow as well. This might show that he could be a good listener or that he is more apt to be sad by nature.