Fun Facts: Vermeer’s ‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’

Johannes Vermeer Girl with a Pearl Earring 1665 Mauritshuis, The Hague.

Johannes Vermeer’s most famous painting.

Dubbed the “Dutch Mona Lisa.”

We do not know who the model was but the painting was considered to be “tronie,” a painting of an imaginary figure.

The point of a “tronie” was to make a study of a head that would portray a type or character.

“Tronies” were made popular by Rembrandt in the 1630’s.

The “pearl” was too large to be real but it was most likely a glass drop varnished to give the appearance of a pearl.

The “pearl” was masterfully painted with what appears to be just 2 strokes of white paint and not even a indication of a hook of any sort.

The painting was considered controversial at the time because the model’s lips were parted, which was not seen at the time.

17th century Dutch women did not wear turbans. This was added to give her an exotic, other-worldly look.

The painting was not appreciated for many years and in 1881 was sold for only 2 gilders and 30 cents.

It was later discovered that it was a Vermeer and, as such, became one of the most famous paintings in the world.

Source: https://www.mauritshuis.nl/en/our-collection/artworks/670-girl-with-a-pearl-earring/#origin-artwork

I hope you enjoyed these fun facts about Vermeer! Stay tuned for more blogs and check back for new work added.

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Copyright 2023 Tim Bovey.