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A. J. Defehrt

Drawing: Expressions of Emotion (Laughter, Weeping, Compassion, Sadness), from Encyclopédie

1762/77
Etching with engraving on cream laid paper
31.7 × 20.6 cm (12.5 × 8.1 in)

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FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

Le Brun’s most active expressions appear at the top of this sheet. His lecture linked the states of laughter and weeping, suggesting that with the exception of laughter’s exposed teeth, they should be drawn in nearly the same way. Sadness, a purer expression than the first two, appears at the bottom right as a “disagreeable languor of the soul.” The compassionate youth at left appears equally subdued by his contemplation of this tragic state.

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