The Sphinx of Delft: Vermeer’s Masterpieces

Johannes Vermeer is today regarded as one of the most important painters in art history. Yet this wasn’t always the case. He was almost entirely forgotten for two centuries after his death, only to be rediscovered in the 1800s.

Vermeer’s works are revered for their rich colours, quality of light and for his ability to imbue everyday scenes with poetry and serenity. Vermeer is a highly mysterious figure; there is very little historical documentation about him in existence, and less than 40 works are attributed to him. As a result, he’s earned the nickname ‘the Sphinx of Delft’.

This talk explores his masterpieces, including ‘The Girl with the Pearl Earring’.