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Anna Maria Van Schurman Collection

Anna Maria van Schurman was a remarkable woman who lived during the 17th century. Born in 1607, she was not only an accomplished artist but also a scholar and writer



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Anna Maria van Schurman was a remarkable woman who lived during the 17th century. Born in 1607, she was not only an accomplished artist but also a scholar and writer. Her portrait, painted by Cornelis Janssens van Ceulen in 1657, showcases her grace and intelligence. In another portrait from 1649 by Jan Lievens, we see Anna Maria's self-assured gaze as she captures herself on canvas. This self-portrait reflects her confidence and determination to make her mark in a world dominated by men. Throughout her life, Anna Maria continued to challenge societal norms and pursue knowledge. She believed that women were capable of intellectual pursuits equal to those of men. In one anonymous painting from the same period, we see her deep in thought, perhaps contemplating the next groundbreaking idea or writing piece. Anna Maria's influence extended beyond art; she made significant contributions to various fields such as philosophy and theology. A portrait by Cornelis van Dalen (II) depicts her alongside Reinier de Graaf, showcasing their collaborative work in advancing medical research. In a striking self-portrait from 1640, Anna Maria portrays herself with elegance and poise. The intricate details of this painting reflect both her artistic talent and inner strength. Another notable artwork is Paulus Lesire's depiction of Anna Maria surrounded by books - a testament to her insatiable thirst for knowledge. This portrayal encapsulates her dedication to learning throughout her lifetime. An intriguing possibility arises when examining Abraham Galen's portrait: could it be Anna Maria disguised under male attire? Known for challenging gender roles, it wouldn't be surprising if this enigmatic figure turned out to be our extraordinary subject. Crispin van den Queborn captured Anna Maria alongside Elisabeth of Bohemia and Caspar van Baerle in his painting from 1633-1652. This composition highlights the connections between these influential women who defied societal expectations.