Johann Caspar Lavater (1741-1801) was one of the most important personalities of the 18th century. With his work and activity at the time of the Enlightenment and the Sturm und Drang, he became a hub within the intellectual and spiritual elite of Europe. The Zurich pastor, author and physiognomist was known and befriended by the most important exponents of culture, politics and society and contributed significantly to establishing the Limmat city in the cultural environment and literary discourse within Europe. The Johann Caspar Lavater Collection, housed in his house, today's "Lavaterhaus" at St. Peter-Hofstatt 6, provides insight into the life, work and influence of this most famous Zurich citizen and probably the most important representative of intellectual Zurich in the 18th century through guided tours and events.
Thoughts Put to Paper – Johann Caspar Lavater and the Culture of Writing in the 18th Century
The Quill Pen as an Instrument of Emotional Connection in the Age of European Networks
from 05.09.2026 until 31.12.2026
Sammlung Johann Caspar Lavater
Like a face of one's own
The exhibition offers insight into the life, work and influence of the famous Zurich preacher, author and physiognomist Johann Caspar Lavater (1741-1801) as ...
Permanent exhibition
Livestream
Sammlung Johann Caspar Lavater
I collect, therefore I am – the function, significance and presentation of a collection
The Johann Caspar Lavater Collection contains a wide variety of contemporary artefacts, autographs, works and images by Johann Caspar Lavater ...
Permanent exhibition
Sammlung Johann Caspar Lavater
Thoughts Put to Paper – Johann Caspar Lavater and the Culture of Writing in the 18th Century
From pen to publication
Permanent exhibition
Sammlung Johann Caspar Lavater
Thoughts Put to Paper – Johann Caspar Lavater and 18th-century writing culture