Dood van Rene Descartes 1669 - 1693

This silver medal, created by Dutch artist Jan (I) Smeltzing between 1669 and 1693, commemorates the life of René Descartes, a renowned philosopher and mathematician. The obverse features a portrait of Descartes, while the reverse displays a sun radiating beams of light onto a globe, with an inscription in Dutch. The medal is a testament to the enduring legacy of Descartes, who profoundly impacted the world of science and philosophy. This small yet intricate piece of art serves as a powerful reminder of the lasting influence of intellectual giants. The inscription on the medal translates to, "This precious jewel contains the world's wonder, the hidden secrets of nature. It overcomes all suffering, and inspires the Netherlands, Greece, and Rome, and breaks off the chain of useless dreams."