H. Bruyères - La phrénologie. Le geste et la physionomie - 1847

Fascinating illustrated edition of 120 portraits, subjects and compositions engraved on steel (90 plates) of this work devoted to the phrenological and physiognomonic theories that were then very fashionable in the 19th century, aiming to demonstrate that the physical features of the face, the shapes of the skull, bodily attitudes and gestures reveal the moral character, intellectual faculties and the deepest passions of individuals -

Fitting into the pseudo-scientific current developed from the works of Franz Joseph Gall and his disciples, the book sets forth the idea that the brain would be divided into different zones corresponding to particular aptitudes or instincts, and that the development of these regions could be observed through the reliefs of the skull -

H. Bruyères thus undertakes to describe the various shapes of heads, foreheads, jaws, eyes or profiles in order to associate them with qualities such as intelligence, courage, sensitivity, ambition, criminality or benevolence -

The work broadens this analysis to facial features and body language, arguing that gestures, facial expressions, gait and postures betray the secret thoughts and moral dispositions of human beings -

H. Bruyères - La phrénologie. Le geste et la physionomie - 1847 - Aubert et Cie -
516 Pages.

Good binding condition, the volume in its red half-leather edition binding, wear from use, some minor defects on the cover, spine and joints worn, corners worn, rubbing on edges, edges stained, gilt edges, spine with ornate raised bands, gilt titles and author’s name, gilt lines on the boards –

Good interior condition, some stains, the last plate is not numbered, small vignette on the title page, ownership stamp, work enriched with 120 portraits, subjects and compositions engraved on steel (90 plates), marbled endpapers in good condition, good copy –

Delivery service guaranteed within a few days –