Portret van Anna Maria van Schurman 1755 - 1765

Curator: This engraving is titled "Portret van Anna Maria van Schurman," dating back to between 1755 and 1765, created by Pierre Dupin. Editor: First blush? Something in black and white that evokes a certain severity. A kind of stillness, like she’s waiting for a question. It also feels deeply ornate – is that curtain behind her as heavy as it looks? Curator: The engraving adheres to the established traditions of Baroque portraiture blended with a dash of academic polish, reflecting the sitter’s status and intellectual leanings in the 18th century. What we see reflected in Anna Maria van Schurman's serene presentation is also her public persona. She lived through turbulent times, participating as a woman in academic and public debates mostly handled by men. Editor: Debates! That window framing a townscape, the drape theatrically pulled back… she’s holding what looks like a fob watch in one hand and resting the other on a book. Makes you wonder what thoughts that face doesn’t betray. Almost like she’s posing for eternity but would rather be throwing rocks in that city’s canals. Do you get that impression? Curator: You perceive, perhaps, the constraints placed upon her. Women during that era, particularly intellectuals like Van Schurman, occupied an unusual position. Celebrated, even feted but rarely allowed to fully integrate or challenge prevailing intellectual and societal conventions. And it's interesting to observe those details you mentioned now in contrast to those broader societal factors. Editor: That elaborate dress! So much frill! How exhausting, trying to breathe in it, but here’s Van Schurman – rock-solid expression and ornate attire, she's a time traveler to today, defying and inspiring without needing to change a thing! Curator: Precisely, this piece speaks to enduring narratives of brilliance, negotiation, and resistance of remarkable historical people. Editor: Well, that just about covers it! Now I need a drink. Maybe Anna Maria would join me.