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Divinity Quote by John Locke

“Beware how in making the portraiture thou breakest the pattern: for divinity maketh the love of ourselves the pattern; the love of our neighbours but the portraiture.” quote by John Locke
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“Beware how in making the portraiture thou breakest the pattern: for divinity maketh the love of ourselves the pattern; the love of our neighbours but the portraiture.”

John Locke

About This Quote

Source Treat: An Essay Concerning Human Understanding, 1690

The act of creating a portrait can disrupt natural order; divine love follows self‑love, while love for others mirrors the portrait.

In simple terms: Creating art may disturb natural patterns; divine love follows self‑love, love for others reflects the portrait.

Key Takeaway

Respect natural patterns when depicting others.

Themes

art philosophy ethics

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • painting
  • sculpture
  • photography
  • visual arts

Key Concepts

self‑love divine love representation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does artistic representation affect our view of others?
  • Can art honor both self and neighbor equally?
A Different Perspective

Art can impose the perception, altering relationships.

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