Sorrow 1773

Jacques Louis David made this chalk drawing, entitled *Sorrow*, which presents a face that seems to capture personal loss. David lived through tumultuous times in France, from the height of the aristocracy to the French Revolution and the rise of Napoleon. In this drawing, the figure’s expression and downcast eyes convey a sense of profound sadness. We might consider the role of women in a patriarchal society like 18th-century France. The weight of societal expectations could be immense, and emotional expression might be one of the few outlets available. Notice the figure's elaborate headwear, which is possibly indicative of a noble woman. Although this drawing captures the essence of human emotion, it also invites us to reflect on how social and political forces shape our personal experiences. In a world where individual voices were often suppressed, the expression of sorrow might have been a powerful act of resistance or resilience.