Four heads

An outline etching representing four heads in ovals, three based on a painting formerly at Cracow (once thought to be a self-portrait of Raphael). This print is lettered with the title and it was published in Lavater's Physiognomy (1783). On the verso of this print is the printed title of the following chapter in the book: " SEIZEME FRAGMENT DE LA BEAUTE IDEALE DES ANCIENS, DE LA BELLE NATURE ET DE SON IMITATION".

Passavant believed the portrait formerly at Cracow to depict Raphael, but various sitters have been suggested (see Bibliographic References). This painting was probably executed during the first two decades of the 16th century. Its provenance can be tracked back to Giulio Romano (who was in possession of the painting probably shortly after the death of Raphael). In 1801, the painting was bought by Prince Czartoryski and it is documented in Poland until the Second World War, when it was probably stolen. For a photograph of the painting, see RCIN 850028.