Domestic Encyclopædia (1802)/Face

FACE, generally signifies the visage of any animal: it is more particularly applied to the human countenance; being the only conspicuous part of the body.

The human face is called the image of the soul, because it is the seat of the principal organs of sense, and the place where the ideas and emotions of the mind are most obviously displayed. It has always been considered the most comely and expressive part of the frame, so that various lotions, powders, &c. have been invented for beautifying and restoring ugly or decayed countenances. Such practice, however, though sanctioned by the folly and caprice of fashion, cannot be too severely censured. Having already pointed out this absurdity, and mentioned such preparations as may be safely used by those who are determined to employ them, we refer the reader to the head Cosmetics.—See also Ring-worm and Skin.