A related — though not as ancient —

A related — though not as ancient — art is phrenology, the study of the bumps on the head. Phrenologists have identified 40 bumps of various shapes and sizes on the human head. They “read” these bumps to identify a person’s talents and character. For example, a bump between the nose and forehead is said to be present in people who have natural elegance and a love of beauty. A bump behind the curve of the ear is the sign of a courageous and adventurous person.
Phrenologists are not so much interested in health as they are in character and personality. They believe, for example, that a bulge in the center of the forehead is typical of people who have a good memory and a desire for knowledge. A small bump at the top of the head indicates a person who has strong moral character, while a bump just below this one is a sign of generosity and a kind, good nature. Phrenologists say a bump just above the tip of the eyebrow is found in people who love order and discipline, and a rise at the very back of the head is evident in people who are very attached to their families.
Phrenology was developed in the early eighteenth century by Franz Joseph Gall, a doctor in Vienna. His interest began at school when he noticed that boys with prominent eyes seemed to have the best memories. This led him to believe that a connection existed between appearance and ability. Dr. Gall’s research interested many people, but he was ridiculed by other doctors. When he died in 1828, he was a poor and bitter man. It was only many years later that Dr. Gall’s theories found support among some doctors and scientists, and today the art of phrenology has become more accepted.