Scene
A painter seen from behind works at his easel in a richly furnished studio. A drawn-back curtain at the left invites the viewer into the room.
The Art of Painting
Johannes Vermeer
1667
Figures
The model embodies Clio, the muse of history, identified by her laurel wreath, trumpet, and book. The painter wears an old-fashioned costume that emphasizes the timeless dignity of his profession.
Symbolism
The map of the Low Countries and the double-headed eagle chandelier suggest political and historical themes. Depicting the artist painting Clio implies that painting secures historical fame.
Craft
Vermeer used carefully constructed linear perspective, plotting the vanishing point with a pinhole and chalk line to create a convincing sense of depth.
Impact
The work is widely regarded as Vermeer’s most explicit reflection on his own craft and a masterpiece of Dutch Golden Age painting.
1 / 5
Tags
Craft
