The head of an ostrich. Drawing, c. 1789.

In applying the study of physiognomy to the animal world, Lavater asserts a "proportional difference of force and form. ... From the insect invisible to the naked eye, up to the elephant, is not the gradation of internal and external character perpetually in exact relation?" (vol. II.i. p. 99)

Lavater describes the ostrich as "the Saturn of birds, which is capable of digesting iron, and of grinding glass to powder, and knows not what compassion means"

[London], 1789?

1 drawing : pencil

Wellcome Collection 29163i