CHAPTER VIII. Of the Eyes and Eyebrows (II)

The Eyebrows.

Eyebrows regularly arched are characteristic of feminine youth ; rectilinear and horizontal, are masculine; arched and the horizontal combined, denote masculine understanding and feminine kindness. Wild and complexed, denote a corresponding mind, unless the hair be soft, and they then signify gentle ardour. Compressed, firm, with the hair running parallel as if cut, are one of the most decisive signs of a firm, manly, mature understanding, profound wisdom, and a true and unerring perception.

Meeting eyebrows, held so beautiful by the Arabs, and by the old physiognomists supposed to be the mark of craft, I can neither believe to be beautiful nor characteristic of such a quality. They are found iii the most open, honest, and worthy countenances. It is true they give the face a gloomy appearance, and perhaps denote trouble of mind and heart. Sunken eyebrows, says Winkelmann, impart something of the severe and melancholy to the head of Antinous.

I never yet saw a profound thinker, or even a man of fortitude and prudence, with weak, high eyebrows, which in some measure equally divide the forehead. Weak eyebrows denote phlegm and debility, though there are choleric and powerful men who have them; but this weakness of eyebrows is always a deduction from power and ardour. Angular, strong, interrupted eyebrows, ever denote fire and productive activity. The nearer the eyebrows are to the eyes, the more earnest, deep, and firm the character. The more remote from the eyes, the more volatile, easily moved, and less enterprising, remote from each other, warm, open, quick sensation. White eyebrows signify weakness; and dark brown firmness. The motion of the eyebrows contains numerous expressions, especially of ignoble passions, pride, anger, and contempt.


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PHYSIOGNOMY;
OR,
THE CORRESPONDING ANALOGY BETWEEN THE
CONFORMATION OF THE FEATURES
AND THE RULING PASSIONS OF THE MIND :
A COMPLETE EPITOME OF THE ORIGINAL WORK
or
J. G. LAVATER.
1866.
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