The appeal of the little dimple is simple. After all, it’s also known as a gelasin, derived from the Greek word meaning “to laugh.” As early as the first century, Latin poet Martial extolled its magnetic nature by deeming those without “the gelasin joyous” to have a “face less gracious.” Shakespeare exalts “pretty dimpled boys, like smiling Cupids” in Antony and Cleopatra, and in China they are still believed to be a sign of good luck. Most attribute the age-old allure of the dimple to its representation of youth, approachability and innocence. Almost all babies sport them in their chubby cheeks, and since we’re hardwired to find newborn faces adorable, dimples elicit an almost Pavlovian tug. This story is from Kinfolk Issue Thirty-six Buy Now Related Stories Arts & Culture Issue 44 Hannah Traore The art world's next big thing is a gallerist. Arts & Culture Issue 44 The False Mirror Compositions inspired by the iconic clouds—and surrealist sensibilities—of René Magritte. Arts & Culture Issue 44 Boaz Nechemia Meet Jerusalem’s favorite weatherman. Arts & Culture Issue 44 Fredi Otto One scientist's mission to prove the link between extreme weather and climate change. Arts & Culture Issue 44 Ghostlore Four questions about supernatural studies. Arts & Culture Issue 44 Word: Anecdata Fact, meet fiction.
Arts & Culture Issue 44 The False Mirror Compositions inspired by the iconic clouds—and surrealist sensibilities—of René Magritte.
Arts & Culture Issue 44 Fredi Otto One scientist's mission to prove the link between extreme weather and climate change.
