The paper presents the results conducted in an earth pressure model with glass sides to determine the rupture surfaces and the distribution of pressures on a rigid retaining wall. Emphasis is laid on the effect of rotation of the wall on the magnitude and distribution of pressure and shape and size of the rupture wedge. It is concluded that the type of wall displacement is one of the important factors affecting the pressures and the rupture wedge. Further, it is pointed out that the common earth pressure theories are inadequate to assess passive pressures correctly.