The surrounding area, with it's multicultural inhabitants and port history, was the inspiration for this portrait of ancient Muslim philosopher, physician, feminist and astronomer Ibn Rushd (1126 - 1198). Also know as Averroes, he was the author of many works that where found controversial in his time. As a commentatorof the work of Aristotle, he was the founder of the medieval school of philosophy named Averroism. Many of his works were lost to censorism. He rejected the idea that women are only good for giving birth and sewing, he even advocated women could govern and rule states.

All of the flowers seen in the painting are native, or have been imported through the port of Rotterdam in the past.