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 demanding to possess it”
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.
Cultivate disinterested appreciation.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- museum visits
- reading poetry
- nature walks
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Can one fully detach desire from appreciation?
- Does detachment diminish emotional depth?
Desire can still color perception.