Portret van Anna Maria van Schurman 1643

Editor: We're looking at "Portret van Anna Maria van Schurman," a print made by Paulus Lesire in 1643. It's quite a detailed engraving. What strikes me is the almost ethereal quality despite the precision of the lines. It feels like a portrait capturing both intellect and vulnerability. What do you see in this piece? Curator: You’ve nailed that ethereal quality, it is fascinating isn't it? The image seems to hold a conversation with time itself, like peering through a looking glass into a soul long past. Lesire's baroque style almost whispers secrets to us from centuries gone by, doesn’t it? I get a sense that the image tries to trap a story of a formidable woman within the swirling embrace of those delicate lines. The decorative border and that inscription certainly invite the viewer in for a moment of quiet contemplation. I'm curious, what do you think of the text on this piece? Do you get any new information about Anna Maria from it? Editor: The text, "Siet hier de wijste Maeghs…" which roughly translates to "Behold the wisest maiden..." elevates her, but the following lines are harder to understand and yet, point to an intriguing power, perhaps untouchability? It sounds quite unique for the 17th Century. Curator: Absolutely, you hit upon a very specific aspect here: she defies limitations. It's wonderful when a work makes us dig a bit, and this portrait certainly rewards a closer look! The fact that this powerful message is being attached to a female subject truly underscores how singular of a figure van Schurman truly was in her era. Thanks for walking through this one with me. Editor: Thank you! That was really insightful, particularly how the work captures the sitter’s uniqueness.