The eyes are regarded as the windows of the soul. They are the first features to capture our attention, as they depict the real person gazing out through the mask of the face. The eyes alone remain much the same throughout life, whereas the nose, ears, hairline, and mouth are subject to change through growth and aging.
In the age position chart of face reading, the eyes signify the mid- to late thirties. The inner whites of the eyes relate to age thirty-four on the left and age thirty-five on the right. The left pupil correlates to age thirty-six, while the right relates to age thirty-seven. The outer whites represent age thirty-eight on the left and age thirty-nine on the right.
In terms of the Palaces of Fortune, the area above each eye is the T'ien Chai Kung, the Palace of House and Farm. The area below each eye is the Nun Nu Kung, the Palace of Man and Woman. These palaces deal with family relationships and domestic issues.
The eye is interpreted according to its position, clarity, and overall shape. The “ideal” type of eye should have a large iris, but not so large that it almost covers the whites. On the other hand, an iris that is too small suggests that the individual is accident-prone and constantly in trouble through no fault of his own.
Eyes should not be bloodshot or have prominent blood vessels. In addition, the eyes should not bulge out too much or habitually look angry. The general rule says that the brighter the pupil is, the better it is.
If the eyes are dull or dominated by low, heavy eyebrows, this is compared to thick clouds obscuring the light of the moon. This combination of features reveals a character that plans everything but is concerned too much with detail. This person will rarely put his schemes into action. It may also show an individual who promises much but delivers little.
Age positions of the eyes
Eyes beneath heavy brows
Big, wide eyes that look surprised suggest a happy-go-lucky, approachable person who is nevertheless a shrewd businessperson. Deep, dark eyes reveal artistic talents and intense emotions. Eyes that protrude or are very round and staring belong to a hard worker who has experienced misfortune. This is a generally unlucky person who will have to work very hard to achieve any success. Adequately spaced, well-shaped eyes show a flirtatious nature and a strong sex drive.
A person who holds your gaze with his own is honest and reliable. This is the mark of a forthright but reasonable person. This individual is open-minded and magnanimous.
If someone raises his eyes while speaking, then he is very opinionated, obstinate, and pompous. He is always ready to give you the benefit of his views, whether you want to hear them or not.
A person with quick, darting eyes has numerous ideas, plans, and desires. However, he is easily bored, has little staying power, and finds it difficult to concentrate on anything for long.
A careful calculator will look you up and down while you are speaking. This marks a subtle, shrewd, and cunning pragmatist who is slightly shady.
The inclination or slope of the eye is also considered important. The eyes should ideally lie along a horizontal plane, but in some cases, they will incline upward or downward. The more pronounced the upward slope, the more the character will be extroverted, confident, proud, and strong-willed.
A downward slope tends to create a sad impression. However, this mournful look is deceptive, and in reality, this person is usually cheerful even though he is thoughtful and introverted. Sympathetic, affectionate, and kind, this person will enjoy a long and happy emotional relationship.
We in the West tend to be rather concerned by the appearance of age marks or crow's-feet around the eyes, but the Eastern viewpoint is quite different. If the person is over forty years of age, then small wrinkles, or crow's-feet, around the eyes (especially at the outside edge) are a normal sign of aging. If, however the person is youthful, then the appearance of crow's-feet takes on an extra significance. Traditionally, according to the age positions of the face, the area at the outer edge of the eye relates to the twenty-eighth year on the right and the twenty-ninth on the left.
Four or fewer narrow wrinkles at the edge of the eye can be a general indicator of the course of luck throughout life. This type of person is good to have on your side in difficult situations. This subject has remarkable organizational abilities as well as being someone who revels in challenges.
Wrinkles that incline upward are considered a very auspicious sign, foretelling good fortune and happiness in relationships. However, a downward inclination of wrinkles suggests less harmonious relationships, work difficulties, and financial problems.
The worst scenario is when the crow's-feet have a scissors-like appearance, crossing over each other in opposite directions so that some go upward and some downward. This person is very stubborn, refusing to accept advice or admit to mistakes. This individual's life is fraught with emotional turmoil. It is also probable that he is a complainer, often creating a dispute over nothing.
Noticeably long crow's-feet reveal problems with commitment and a lustful nature. Possessors of long crow's-feet are likely to have a series of unsatisfactory relationships. Particularly long wrinkles may also indicate a lazy person who is willing to live off the efforts of someone else. He loves a life of luxury but is unwilling to work for it.
Although the appearance of four wrinkles at the outer edge of the eye is normal, the presence of many lines suggests that this is a lonely person. If this feature occurs in a young person, the crow's-feet suggest lethargy and lack of purpose.
A fold on the upper eyelid suggests a person who shows great self-control. If there is no fold, then there is an overly emotional nature and a tendency to overreact.
Eyelids that droop in the middle are found on untrustworthy people who are preoccupied with seduction. A drooping eyelid denotes someone who is cunning, self-serving, and without conscience.
If the red inner surface of the lower eyelid is visible, it can reveal a wanton and lustful nature, especially in women. In men, it can suggest impotence or at least sexual insecurity.
There are many different types of eye shape, depending on the surrounding features of the eyeball and the position of the iris itself. These features have suitably poetic (and frequently unflattering) descriptive names relating to their interpretation.
This type of eye has the iris at the bottom of the eye, with the white to the left, right, and above. This signifies a determined and confident person who is very truthful, somewhat forthright, and often tactless. He is strong-willed, often has a foul temper, and is easily frustrated by the slow actions and apparent inefficiency of others.
The wolf's eye describes the iris floating just under the upper eyelid, with the white to the left, right, and below. This is the mark of a shrewd and ruthless person. He knows exactly what he wants and how to get it! Traditionally, this shape is an indicator of cruelty or at least a tendency to ignore other people's feelings. This is no stranger to conflict and thrives on challenges. If you look at photographs of serial killers or other sociopaths, they often have this kind of eye.
This type of eye has the iris set in the very middle of the eyeball. The white surrounds it on all sides, and it is often found in eyes that are prominent or bulge. This type of person is very adaptable and accustomed to the unexpected. However, he is prone to furious outbursts when his desires are unfulfilled. This type of person always has a plan, usually several. It is when all of the plans fail that the fireworks begin. If a person's eyes suddenly develop a lot of white around them, the subject is probably suffering from an overactive thyroid.
The upper eyelid has a distinct raised portion in the middle. The color of the iris tends to be strong, and its surroundings are somewhat off-white. A strong eyebrow usually accompanies this type of eye. This is a sure sign of great achievement. Owners of this eye are competitive and they thrive on challenge. They are observant and possess excellent judgment. They know when to act and when to be passive. The triangular eye is said to be the mark of a natural politician, although some would say he is a plotter. It is certain that he will make the most out of all opportunities and gain wealth and status.
The angry eye is recognized by concentric circles within the iris. This type of eye is also known as the wheel eye. This individual is very physical. This active individual prefers to be practical rather than to spend time thinking. He may lack foresight and can cause chaos if he is not properly guided. It is unfortunate that the possessor of the angry eye won't even notice the havoc he leaves in his wake. Needless to say, he is constantly offending someone.
The description of the fire wheel eye is one of the few occasions in face reading that iris color is mentioned. The iris has a green, red, or blue ring around it, and there are concentric circles of color within the iris itself. This eye indicates a volatile temperament. This person exists in a state bordering on fury, and he frequently explodes over minor issues. It might be said that he is always on the lookout for someone or something to be offended by! He is extremely alert, overly critical, and possibly a little paranoid, always assessing the strengths and weaknesses of those around him.
The sand eye is notable for the flecks of yellowish color within the iris. In the West, the sand eye is very common in those with blue or even lighter eyes. This is a mentally acute and perceptive person. He is a great communicator-quick thinking, quick talking, and never short of an answer. He loves an argument because he possesses an innate capacity to spot all flaws in his opponent and run rings around him with devastating wit. He loves doing this so much that he is in danger of becoming quarrelsome if he does not exercise self-control.
The mole eye has a small spot of dark color in the white of the eye. The possessor of this type of eye is likely to have periods of good fortune, but they will not last. It is likely that people who take advantage of his good nature will contribute to his misfortunes. He does not deserve this treatment, because he has a kind heart, but unless he is extremely careful, his own charitable disposition can lead him to ruin.
This type is similar to the four-white eye because the iris is found low on the eyeball. In this case, the area surrounding the iris will tend to be reddish or yellowish rather than white. These eyes have heavy upper eyelids and tend to look lethargic. Any crow's-feet will be made up of many short wrinkles.
The name of this type of eye is not an indication of drunkenness! In fact, this person will be very sexy and literally have a “roving eye.” He is usually charismatic and extremely attractive to the opposite sex. However, this feature indicates a life filled with many good and bad events. There will be times when a series of mishaps in life will cause all his plans to fail. On the other hand, there will be periods when the opposite is the case and absolutely everything will go right. When you spot this feature, do not expect consistency.
This type of eye has few or no wrinkles around it, even when the possessor is in middle or old age. It is smooth and rounded at the edges, having no angles at all in its outer portion. This eye suggests youthfulness and an active mind. This person's powers of persuasion could lead him into a career as a salesperson, public relations expert, or spokesperson. However, this very eloquence could also get him into trouble. The romantic life is problematic because this persuasive ability is very seductive. A person with an unwrinkled eye is easily tempted off the straight and narrow path of fidelity. He is likely to have many serial relationships but is also capable of concurrent ones.
This eye is very long, inclining upward into a bow shape in the middle. Both the iris and the white of the eye are somewhat cloudy or shadowed. This is the mark of a very cautious person. He is perceptive, and he is a keen observer of human nature who may be cynical. This trait is likely to be completely concealed by his charm. Those with pea blossom eyes will rarely look straight at you while they are trying to work out your motives. This type is often extremely talented. These people often excel in the arts or in careers that require charisma and flair. They are also very popular, with many lifelong friends and an active social life. Some of his old friends will be old lovers because those with pea blossom eyes can retain affection even when passion has faded.
This eye will tend to be narrow and long, giving an impression of wisdom. It has many wrinkles both above and below the eye. This person gains by experience: he is perceptive, he has a good memory, and he is compassionate and helpful to those in need. He will go to great lengths to give assistance to anyone who has stirred his sympathies. This type of person is sensitive, creative, enthusiastic, and full of humor.
The iris is high, similar in form to the wolf's eye, but there will be few or no lines on the lower eyelid and several strong lines on the upper. The gaze of a person with the eyes of a lion is brave, direct, and unflinching. This person has flawless judgment, and others will admire him and see him as an example and role model. He is respectable and responsible. Most often he is so career-minded and determined that his diligence and ambition will bring great reward. He takes his role in life very seriously indeed and cannot tolerate being the butt of jokes or even bear lighthearted banter.
Very similar to the lion eye, the eyes of the tiger are more golden. The crow's-feet at the edge will be short, faint, and rather scattered. There are few or no creases beneath the eye, but one strong line on the upper eyelid. This is a forceful character with strong attitudes and opinions. Other people will look to this person for guidance and leadership. However, he is a loner who is happy in his own company, with an occasional pressing need for solitude. It is likely that at times he will work or live alone. He may be considered eccentric, as he could choose an unusual lifestyle.
This type has a central iris and is big, rounded, long, and noted for clarity. There may be two or more creases on the upper eyelid. The crane eye shows that its possessor is likely to be generally lucky through life and that he will win steadfast and loyal friends. He is deeply compassionate and loves nature. This is a person of unimpeachable integrity. The honesty is such that this person will speak openly and be very forthright because he cannot stand any sort of deviousness.
Eagle eyes are long and fairly narrow. The iris is high on the eyeball, which possesses a yellowish tinge. One long crease is usually visible on the upper eyelid, but beneath, there are no wrinkles at all. This is a solitary sort of person. By his own choice, he will prefer to live or work alone. He sees the world his own individual way, and he will live life on his own terms. These people do not take kindly to being told what to do at any time. Although he is fond of family and friends, he tends to think, “Absence makes the heart grow fonder,” and keeps them at arm's length. This fierce independence means that he will not ask for help under any circumstances.
This type of eye is fairly long but is so well rounded it appears to be in perfect proportion. The iris is centrally placed and may possess a golden hue. There are definite creases both above and below the eye. This is a relaxed personality with a lighthearted view of life and an easy, outgoing personality. This person makes friends easily, and if in the course of events some fall by the wayside, so what?—he can always make more. This is not an ambitious person, because he will tend to be happy the way things are. Although people with goose eyes are not high fliers, they will have contented and fulfilling lives.
These are deep-set eyes framed by a long crease both above and below. The eyes are bright and clear, giving the impression of sharpness. The swallow eye is elegant and rather beautiful. This extremely trustworthy person firmly believes that a promise is a sacred trust. He will gain admiration for the way he keeps his word, even when breaking it would be in his best interest. It is unfortunate that the swallow eye does not indicate wealth or status, but it does reveal a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle.
This type of eye is watery and bulges slightly. There are many folds of skin and creases on the lower eyelid, but the upper lid is generally free of wrinkles with a soft and delicate appearance. Crow's-feet at the outer edge of the eye will be inclined downward. This person is a hard worker who carries on through thick and thin. He may struggle against overwhelming odds. Like a cart horse, he will diligently persevere with his thankless tasks through all weathers and in all conditions. It is unfortunate that this person may not receive his just reward for all his efforts. The horse eye reveals a person who will have more than his fair share of difficulties. Despite this, he does not lose heart, and his courage will put charismatic people to shame.
Lamb eyes are dark with a yellowish tinge to both the iris and the whites. There may be concentric lines within the pupil. The upper eyelid will have folds of skin while the lower eyelid will not. In addition, the lower eyelid will be flat and have thin, delicate skin marked with fine lines. Any crow's-feet will be thin, faint, and scattered. This individual is dutiful and always busy, a hard worker who rarely feels he has the time to enjoy the results of his efforts. People who possess lamb eyes have to rely on themselves because they learn early on in life that there is no point in relying on anyone else. This person is constantly in demand, but it will not matter how overloaded his schedule is; there is always just enough time for one more task.
This is a large, rounded eye, but it is not bulging. The iris and the whites are very clear indeed. This is a very forgiving person who will overlook past wrongs and give those who offended him a second or even third chance to put things right. He is gentle in attitude and outward manner. This person's feelings run very deep indeed, but it is not part of his character to express himself in anything other than a calm manner. The crow's-feet take on an extra significance with ox eyes. An upward inclination reveals an extremely trustworthy nature. This person will never let you down. The downward inclination of the eyes denotes a nature that is too passive, so this is one who wants an easy life and who will make empty promises to keep it that way.
The pig eye possesses heavy, coarse lids, and the eye is dark and muddy. The eyes are relatively small and tend to peer suspiciously about them. This is not a lucky eye shape. Pig eyes reveal a tempestuous and irritable, sharp-tongued and impulsive person. There is a self-esteem problem here, as this person is very insecure. He conceals his weak self-image behind a barrage of constant and often inaccurate criticisms of others. Those with pig eyes make enemies very easily and unnecessarily. If such a person would hold back his opinions and think before he speaks, his life would be much more pleasant.
The monkey eye has an iris that lies toward the top of the eye. The eye is small and fairly short in length. There is a crease or fold on the upper eyelid, and the fold curves down sharply toward the outer corner of the eye and possibly even beyond it. This is an inquisitive person who is capable of mastering a multiplicity of skills. This subject is optimistic and outgoing, with great courage. He is also bright, inventive, and cheerful, and he will gain the admiration of those who are not so brash. The ancient Chinese firmly believed that those with monkey eyes delight in eating fruit.
Among the people of China and the oriental races of the surrounding areas, an iris of dark brown to black hue is usual; therefore, eye color never became an important factor in Chinese face reading. However, Western face readers developed a system of classifying eye color due to the variety of eye colors present in peoples of European descent. Here are the Western eye color ideas: