Opuscula Hebraea, Graeca, Latina, Gallica, Prosaica & Metrica by Anna Maria Von Schurman. A book by the multi-faceted woman, who loved Jews and Hebrew, Anna Maria Von Schurman (Chana Miriam Von Schurman).
8 parts, [4], 374 pages, including an engraving of a rare self-portrait. Colored title page, woodcut. Contains personal letters to the princes and the queen in Hebrew! Parchment binding.
Anna Maria Von Schurman was born on November 5 1607 in Holland. A multi-faceted woman who worked in music, art, drawing, engraving and as a researcher. She became very well known and was known as the most famous woman in 17th century Europe. Anna Maria, who signed her letters in Hebrew with the name “Chana Miriam” was drawn to Judaism, despite being a Christian, and corresponded with Rabbis, as well as with princes and queens in Hebrew! At the age of 30 she had a debate with the well known philosopher Rene Descartes about the importance of reading the Bible in Hebrew. She had an amazing talent for ancient languages and was described by researchers of the time as ‘The eighth wonder of the world’. Anna was active in women’s rights; and was the first female university student (she sat behind a curtain in the classroom), despite the official prohibition against women students.
This rare book, which contains a collection of Anna Maria’s writings, was published in the author’s lifetime and contains a rare self-portrait from the year of publishing. Enclosed is a leaf and the book ‘Ivrit BaGoyim’ with biographical details about the author.
Original parchment binding. Very fine condition.