108 
LAVATER^S 
ESSAY XIV. 
On Changes produced hy the leading Pajftons, as 
they are impreffed on the human Countenance ; 
and the whole Appearance of the Body^ with re- 
Jpect to Painting. 
LE BRUN’s flcetcbes contain the principal figns 
by whic^ the paffions manifeft themfelves, as tran- 
fports of the foul, by fuch impreffions on our fenfes 
are reprefented by motions of the body. Thus 
whatever paffes at the feat of life is difcovered 
without difguife, for every paifion has a peculiar 
language and charafter. 
No ftriking alteration of the mufcles proceeds 
from flight fenfations, fuch as furprife, admiration, 
efleem, veneration, &c. ; but, although the whole 
frame feems to be at reft w'hile it keeps pace with 
peace of mind under thefe circumftances, they 
ftamp upon the features a particular caft, vifible to 
difccrning eyes. For inftance ; aftonifliment is ex-^ 
prefl'ed by a backward motion of the head, ftaring 
eyes, riling brows, ftirivelled forehead, and an 
open mouth. 
But when we admire, our looks recover more of 
their natural air j we gape lefs, and gaze quietly, 
without over-ftraining a feature. 
We 
