The Seven Sages of Greece. The traditions of Ancient Greece named seven philosophers and statesmen from the 7th and 6th centuries BC as the wisest of men. They were: Solon of Athens, Chilon of Sparta, Thales of Miletus, Bias of Priene, Cleobulus of Lindos, Pittacus of Mytilene, and Periander of Corinth. Here, they are shown holding a discussion in a traditional banqueting area. Artwork, based on ancient busts and statues, from the 19th century book Vies des Savants Illustres.