Johann Kaspar Lavater (1741-1801), Swiss writer and founder of physiognomics, the reading of character from facial features. His belief in the interaction of mind and body led him to seek influences of the spirit upon the features. He postulated that each person had an individual character or genius, which was related metaphysically to his or her facial features. His Physiognomische Fragmente zur Beförderung der Menschenkenntnis und Menschenliebe (1775–78) established his reputation throughout Europe. He was follower of Franz Mesmer and introduced mesmerism in Germany.
- Medal
Bronze. France 1818. Signed. Posthumous. Issued for Durand’s Series Numismatica Universalis Virorum Illustrium
- Size
41 mm
- Artist
Pierre Lévèque (1780-1845), French sculptor and die-sinker at Paris, Palais Royal. He is said to have cut several medals commemorating the Revolution of July 1830. He contributed to Durand’s medallic series. (Forrer 3, 424)
- Obverse
Clothed bust left, coat showing four buttons, and four button holes bound with braid; below truncation, LEVEQUE and in a curve along edge at left at right JOH.GASPARUS LAVATER
- Reverse
In six parallel lines, NATUS/ TURICI/ HELVETIORUM / AN. M.DCC.XLI. / OBIIT/ AN. M.DCCC.I.; in exergue, SERIES NUMISMATICA / UNIVERSALIS VIRORUM ILLUSTRIUM, below a shorter mark, M.D.CCC.XVIII.; along edge at lower left, PARISIIS and at right, DURAND EDIDIT in minute letters
- Ref
Freeman 300; Storer 2029
