About the author
James W. Redfield is the author of Comparative Physiognomy, Or, Resemblances Between Men and Animals, a nineteenth-century work that argues human character can be read through facial resemblances to animals, illustrated throughout with paired portraits. First published in 1852, the book has since been reissued in facsimile editions by publishers including Legare Street Press and Gale Ecco's Sabin Americana series, which reproduces historical Americana from Joseph Sabin's bibliography. Little verified biographical detail about Redfield survives beyond his authorship of this single work. The book belongs to the nineteenth-century tradition of physiognomy, a since-discredited pseudoscience that claimed to infer temperament and character from physical appearance, and it is read today mainly as a historical curiosity and primary source for scholars of that tradition rather than as a practical guide. Readers drawn to the history of physiognomy, phrenology, or Victorian-era character science are the intended audience for this reissue.
📖 Where to start with James W Redfield
💬 What our editors say about James W Redfield's books
“This work is a fascinating historical artifact but requires careful navigation by the modern reader. While Redfield’s detailed examination of resemblances between human countenances and animals offers a singular perspective on…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on Comparative Physiognomy, Or, Resemblances Between Men and Animals
“This book is best suited for historians of science or enthusiasts of esoteric traditions seeking to understand past methodologies. It is NOT suitable for readers looking for modern scientific validity, as the premises are largely…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on Comparative Physiognomy, Or, Resemblances Between Men and Animals
“This volume offers a fascinating, albeit dated, perspective on character analysis through the lens of animal resemblance. While it provides a rich resource for understanding historical scientific thought and societal perceptions,…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on Comparative Physiognomy, Or, Resemblances Between Men and Animals.
📋 Editions by James W Redfield in the catalog
| Edition | Year | Publisher | Pages | ISBN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparative Physiognomy, Or, Resemblances Between Men and Animal | 2023 | Legare Street Press | 342 | 9781020263033 |
| Comparative Physiognomy, Or, Resemblances Between Men and Animal | 2023 | Legare Street Press | 342 | 9781021623744 |
| Comparative Physiognomy, Or, Resemblances Between Men and Animal | 2012 | Gale Ecco, Sabin Americana | 338 | 9781275736450 |
