On November 15, 1741, Johann Caspar Lavater was born. He was a Swiss poet, philosopher, and theologian known for his work in physiognomy, particularly his publication "Physiognomische Fragmente." Although born in Zürich, his ideas resonated with intellectual circles in Basel. See wikipedia for more information.

On November 15, 1985, Meret Oppenheim died. She was a German-born Swiss Surrealist artist whose work was significantly influenced by her early experiences in Basel, where she had her first solo exhibition in 1936. After returning to Basel in 1937, she became involved with the Gruppe 33 and participated in exhibitions at Kunstmuseum Basel. See wikipedia for more information.