A Female Philosopher in Extasy at solving a Problem.
DateCa. 1770
OriginEngland, London
MediumMezzotint with line engraving with hand color on laid paper
DimensionsOverall: 13 1/2 × 9 3/4in. (34.3 × 24.8cm)
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1973-250
DescriptionLower margin reads: "A Female Philosopher on Extasy at Solving a Problem."Label TextThis satirical print pokes fun at the popularity of maps and globes among women in the 18th century. Though women were blocked form professions that involved geometry, geography, or cartography, women did participate in exercises in reading maps or globes as part of their education or for entertainment. This print, with its sexual overtones, lampoons women's interest in mapping and education as frivilous and perhaps suspicious by questioning the motives of women who are working wtih maps in private. The young woman sits at a table with a globe and book entitled "Euclid's Elements." A pen and small ink stand are also shown. A fireplace behind her has an overmantle picture of zodiac figures. The door is half open and a young man looks in on the scene.Inscription(s)On the back upper left in faded brown ink is a set of initials I C B and the date 1778.ProvenanceBefore 1973, Walter T. Spencer (London, England); 1973-present, purchased by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (Williamsburg, VA).
