Two outlines of faces expressing joy (left) and the movement of the face in sadness (right). Etching by B. Picart, 1713, after C. Le Brun.

Each image contains letters inscribed on certain features of the face. 'Mouvement de douleur' refers to the movement of the face during the expression

Le Brun's depiction of the passions is supported by his theory of the passions, which is delineated in the 'Conférence'. In Cartesian style, each compound passion is an organisation of the six simple passions of admiration, love, hatred, desire, joy and sadness. For instance, jealousy is a composite of love and hate; despair "is a strong persuasion of not being able to obtain what we desire"

[Amsterdam (Sur La. cingel vis a vis le marche aux pommes a l'etoile)] : [chez B. Picart le Rom], [1713]

2 prints : etching ; platemark (L): 9.7 x 5.9 cm

La joye. Mouvement de douleur Bears numbers : P. 23a

Wellcome Collection 33508i

Exhibited in "Passions and Fervour. The Art of Powerful Emotions" at LWL Museum fur Kunst und Kultur, 9th October 2020 - 14th February 2021