Aspasia im Gespräch mit Philosophen 

Michel Corneille the Younger created this sepia drawing, "Aspasia im Gespräch mit Philosophen," sometime between 1642 and 1708. The piece invites us to consider the role of women in intellectual life, and what it means to be a woman participating in traditionally male dominated spheres. Corneille depicts Aspasia of Miletus, a historical figure known for her intelligence and influence in Athenian society. Though not much is known about her, she ran in intellectual circles and was associated with prominent thinkers like Socrates. Here, Aspasia is portrayed engaging with philosophers, signaling her intellectual prowess and challenging the conventional gender roles of her time. There’s an energy in the way Corneille draws the scene. You can almost feel the lively debate and sense Aspasia’s presence as a catalyst for philosophical discourse. The drawing suggests that knowledge and wisdom can emerge through dialogue and exchange, regardless of gender. It prompts us to reflect on the power dynamics inherent in the pursuit of knowledge, and the ongoing struggle for recognition and equality in intellectual spaces.