Despite having only 35 known canvases, the work of
Johannes Vermeer (1632-1675) is considered one of the
some of the most important and inspiring in the history of art . Her paintings have served as the basis for a bestseller
The New York Times and a film starring Scarlett Johansson, and have reported record numbers of visitors to art institutions from Amsterdam to Washington.
Vermeer depicts everyday activities, ranging from writing a letter to playing music or tending to preparations in the kitchen. His scenes are marvelous for their
meticulous attention to detail , the
majestic planes of light and Vermeer's extraordinary ability to create
narrative enigmas . In paintings as beloved as
Lady to the virginal ,
Woman in yellow writing a letter And, the most famous of all,
In The Girl with a Pearl Earring , Vermeer not only evokes the effects of substance and texture, but also the multiple stories and secrets that lie beneath the surface.
With key works and concise, accessible texts, this essential introduction analyzes Vermeer's preeminent role in art history and his unique ability to transform oil painting into human scenes brimming with life.
