Home > North America > United States of America > New York > New York > Sights > Wall Street
Rene Descartes and Isaac Beeckman
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Rene Descartes and Isaac Beeckman
Rene Descartes and Isaac Beeckman. Historical engraving of the French mathematician & philosopher Rene Descartes (1596- 1650, centre), solving a problem posed to him by the Dutch philospher Isaac Beeckman (1588-1637, right). Descartes was stationed with the French army in the Dutch town of Breda in 1617, where it was the custom to post philosophical questions on the town walls. He asked Beeckman, the head of a local college, to translate one of these problems into Latin or French. To Beeckmans surprise, Descartes immediately solved it. Descartes (centre) coined the phrase I think therefore I am and made major advances in algebra & geometry
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6306629
© SHEILA TERRY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1600s 1617 17th Century City Descartes Discussing Dutch Engraving False Colour Flemish French Holland Mathematician Philosopher Philosophy Portraits Rene Descartes Solving Street Surname B Talking Breda False Coloured Philosophers Rene
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Contemporary art
> Portraits
> Street art
> Arts
> Street art graffiti
> Portraits
> Street art
> Europe
> Related Images
> North America
> United States of America
> New York
> New York
> Sights
> Wall Street
EDITORS COMMENTS
This historical engraving captures a fascinating moment between two brilliant minds, Rene Descartes and Isaac Beeckman. In the bustling streets of 17th century Breda, where philosophical questions adorned the town walls, Descartes found himself stationed with the French army. Seeking assistance in translating one of these problems into Latin or French, he turned to Beeckman, an esteemed Dutch philosopher and head of a local college. To Beeckman's astonishment, Descartes effortlessly solved the enigma without hesitation. This encounter showcases Descartes' exceptional intellect and problem-solving abilities that would later revolutionize mathematics and philosophy. Descartes stands at the center of this colored illustration, his presence commanding attention as he engages in deep conversation with Beeckman on a lively street corner. The artist skillfully captures their animated discussion amidst a backdrop of European city life. It is worth noting that it was during this period that Descartes coined his famous phrase "I think therefore I am" which encapsulates his belief in rationalism and skepticism towards traditional knowledge systems. His contributions to algebra and geometry also propelled him to great heights within academia. This artwork not only immortalizes these influential figures but also transports us back to a time when intellectual curiosity thrived on the streets of Breda.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.