VERMEER

Johannes Vermeer's depictions of contemplative moments in serene Dutch interiors have made viewers lean in and gasp centuries.

Only 34 paintings out of a total of no more than 50 have survived, and there are no extant diaries or letters to reveal the intimate chambers of his own life. 

He was nicknamed "the Sphinx of Delft" by a 19th century art historian, and thus was born the image of a lone genius working in isolation.

One of the atributes often associated with Vermeer, for example, is a focus on a solitary figure standing alone in a room near a window.

The notion that Vermeer may not have been a true originator, but rather a follower, a copycat, would be heresy to fans who have a cult-like love of his genius. But viewers of the two previous  exhibitions  in Paris and Dublin seem to be unruffled by the suggestion.

It is not necessary discussions about Vermeer. He was an exceptional artist, we can see it. His paintings are masterpieces.

"The kitchen maid", 1658

"Woman in blue"

 "Girl with a pearl earring", 1665

"The lacemaker"

"Woman writing a letter with her maid", 1670