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Art Quote by Jenny Zhang

“They were a sign of patronage, a sign of having so much money that it had to be squandered on objects with no purpose except to be beautiful or interesting.” quote by Jenny Zhang
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““They were a sign of patronage, a sign of having so much money that it had to be squandered on objects with no purpose except to be beautiful or interesting.””

Jenny Zhang

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Art of Excess, Jenny Zhang, 2019

Excessive spending on beautiful but purposeless objects reflects a desire to display wealth rather than need.

In simple terms: Spending on beauty shows wealth.

Key Takeaway

Question the purpose of purchases.

Themes

consumerism status aesthetics

Mood

critical analytical

Type

cultural sociological

When to use this quote

  • gift buying
  • home décor
  • fashion trends

Key Concepts

materialism social signaling

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do you buy things for show?
  • What alternatives satisfy your desire for beauty?
A Different Perspective

May ignore deeper values or needs.

2.1 out of 5 (4 ratings)

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