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Art Quote by Moses Mendelssohn

“We consider the beauty of nature and art with pleasure and satisfaction, without the slightest movement of desire. Instead, it appears to be a particular mark of beauty that it is considered with tranquil satisfaction; that it pleases if we also do not possess it and we are still far removed from…” quote by Moses Mendelssohn
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“We consider the beauty of nature and art with pleasure and satisfaction, without the slightest movement of desire. Instead, it appears to be a particular mark of beauty that it is considered with tranquil satisfaction; that it pleases if we also do not possess it and we are still far removed from demanding to possess it”

Moses Mendelssohn

About This Quote

Source Philosophical Treatise, 1765

True aesthetic appreciation is disinterested, enjoying beauty without desire to own or use it.

In simple terms: Beauty enjoyed without wanting it.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate disinterested appreciation.

Themes

aesthetics philosophy desire

Mood

reflective contemplative

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • museum visits
  • reading poetry
  • nature walks

Key Concepts

beauty tranquility detachment

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can one fully detach desire from appreciation?
  • Does detachment diminish emotional depth?
A Different Perspective

Desire can still color perception.

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