Artwork

Title Page to J.F. Lenault, The Use of the Passions

Title Page to J.F. Lenault, The Use of the Passions, by William Marshall, ink, 1649
Title Page to J.F. Lenault, The Use of the Passions, by William Marshall, ink, 1649

Title Page to J.F. Lenault, The Use of the Passions is an ink print by the Baroque artist William Marshall. It dates from 1649 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

This print shows a busy scene with people tangled in chains labeled with feelings like Joy, Fear, and Hate.

This print shows a busy scene with people tangled in chains labeled with feelings like Joy, Fear, and Hate. At the top, a fancy frame holds the title *The Use of Passions*. One woman holds a wine cup, another looks sad, and a cherub points at a heart. The chains twist around them all.

The top text says this was translated from French in 1649. The artist used sharp lines to show each emotion clearly.

Check out how this was made with engraving.

Overview

This engraving, created in 1649 by William Marshall, serves as the title page to J.F. Lenault's 'The Use of the Passions'. It is a print that visually represents the complex interplay of human emotions.

Subject & Meaning

The scene depicts a group of figures entangled in chains labeled with various emotions, such as Joy, Fear, and Hate. A cherub gestures towards a heart, while the figures around it exhibit different emotional states, including one holding a wine cup and another appearing sorrowful.

Technique & Style

The engraving is characterized by sharp lines that clearly delineate the various emotions and figures. The use of engraving as a medium allowed for detailed and intricate work, evident in the complex scene and the ornate frame holding the title.

History & Provenance

The print was created in 1649, as indicated by the text at the top, which also notes that it was translated from French. The artist, William Marshall, was responsible for the engraving.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.