14 notes

JOHANNES VERMEER “MASTER OF LIGHT”

• VERMEER, THE MILKMAID, 1660

  • CONTENT: working woman pouring milk. natural light from the high window. pointillé (small dots of thick paint) suggest light reflecting off brad crusts and basket. table is a still-life. foot warmer symbolize domesticity/romantic. primary color palette.

  • CONTEXT: maid is shown w dignity. celebrating simple virtue of productivity. pyramidal composition. camera obscura used to achieve precise perspective and lighting.

  • SYMBOLIC: romantic association w cupid tiles and foot warmer

• VERMEER, WOMAN HOLDING A BALANCE, 1660S

  • CONTENT: woman holding a balance (moderation), reflects weighing her own actions and seeking balance in life. painting on wall of “the last judgement” is reminder of mortality. jewels on table represent earthly wealth. mirror represent looking into oneself.

  • SYMBOLIC: moderation and thoughtful living. woman is contemplating her spiritual balance while surrounded by temptations and the ultimate promise of judgement

• VERMEER, THE ART OF PAINTING, 1660S  

  • CONTENT: painter (possibly vermeet himself) is portraying an idealized version of the artist. women is identified as clio, the muse of history (long trumpet, book, laurel wreath).

  • CONTEXT: arguing for nobility of painting. clothing worn by figure further elevates his status. map connects the painting to recent history of political triumphs of the dutch republic. eagle suggest the end of the spanish/habsburg rule. one-point perspective. camera obscura.