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Anne "Ninon" de L'Enclos lived from 1620 to 1705 and was considered the Beauty of the 17th Century. Though not born into or married into royalty, she became the leading figure of the royal ancien régime, which encompassed the political, social, economic, and cultural spheres of France before the French Revolution. Renowned for her charismatic charm, intellectual prowess, and tenacious independence, Ninon was a very powerful figure—second only to the Sun King himself—due to her innate ability to inspire many to achieve greatness.​​ As a distinguished writer, patron of the arts, and strong-willed proto-feminist, Ninon redefined what a woman could achieve. Her impact as an altruist was profound, helping many people from all walks of life, both financially and otherwise. In her private social club which was rare for a woman to own, she personally educated many women, advocating for equal rights. Financially, she may have been one of the earliest investors by supporting the careers and businesses of notable figures such as Voltaire, Molière, Saint-Evremond, de Sévigné, La Fontaine, Scarron, Fontenelle, La Rochefoucauld, the Great Condé, René Descartes, de Grammont, and many more.​​ 

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"True power lies in the ability

to empower others."

- Ninon

 

With her enduring belief that the greatest pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do, she prevailed through some very difficult personal misfortunes, including being orphaned as a young girl, the early death of a son, and imprisonment at the Madelonnettes Convent for opposing unjust societal norms. Ninon passed as a very prosperous individual who generously shared her wealth and influence throughout her life. Whether they were young or old, rich or poor, known or unknown, it mattered not to her, and she made it her life's mission to help as many people as possible. In doing so, she changed the trajectory of an entire nation. Today, the Lanclos legacy remains a vital part of France's rich history, with portraits of Ninon displayed in museums worldwide, such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Louvre Palace, and Château de Versailles.

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