Gehoorzaal in Felix Meritis, 1789 1794

Noach van der Meer II created this print of the Auditorium in Felix Meritis in 1789. It offers us a glimpse into the cultural and intellectual life of the Enlightenment in Amsterdam. The Felix Meritis Society, founded in 1777, aimed to promote arts and sciences, embodying the era’s belief in progress through knowledge. Looking at the image, notice the rigid separation between the men and women. This spatial segregation reflects the gender norms of the late 18th century, where intellectual life was largely a male domain, even within a progressive society. The presence of women, though, suggests a subtle shift, hinting at their growing, though still limited, participation in public discourse. The architecture, with its neoclassical columns and orderly layout, further symbolizes the Enlightenment’s emphasis on reason and order. Consider how this space, designed for enlightenment, also subtly reinforces existing social hierarchies. This print invites us to reflect on the complexities of historical progress and the ongoing negotiation of inclusion and exclusion.