From joy, euphoria and exhilaration to serenity, contentment and fulfilment - where do happy feelings come from, and how do they affect us?

Bringing together 45 carefully selected historic and contemporary objects and artworks, On Happiness reflects on the diverse approaches to happiness throughout history.

Exploring visual culture from the 11th century through to contemporary artists such as David Shrigley and Jasleen Kaur, this book from Wellcome Collection delves into our responses to joy. Are there contemporary resonances to be found in historical ideas? How have different cultures explored and articulated states of happiness? And, in dark times, can joy be a form of resistance?