Laughter after 1698

Eduardus Jacobus made this drawing, called "Laughter," with red chalk. The drawing is accompanied by a written description, revealing an attempt to dissect and understand the physiological phenomenon of laughter. In a culture deeply invested in scientific exploration and philosophical inquiry, the Enlightenment sought to classify and codify human emotions. Jacobus's work reflects this ambition, breaking down laughter into its component parts, from the movement of eyebrows to the exposure of teeth. This analytical approach mirrors the broader project of the Enlightenment, which sought to rationalize and understand all aspects of human experience. To fully grasp the cultural context of this drawing, it's useful to look at physiological and philosophical texts of the period. By delving into such resources, we can better understand the role of art as a tool for both scientific inquiry and social commentary. This approach allows us to appreciate the meaning of art as something deeply rooted in its own time.