Girl with a Pearl Earring
c. 1665 Mauritshuis
About this artwork
This iconic oil painting is a tronie, a Dutch term for a character study, rather than a portrait. It features a young woman with a striking pearl earring and vibrant headscarf, depicted against a dark background, showcasing Vermeer's mastery of light and color.
Did you know?
Often called the "Mona Lisa of the North", this painting's subject and her enigmatic gaze have fascinated viewers for centuries. Vermeer's meticulous use of expensive ultramarine pigment, derived from lapis lazuli, highlights the brilliance of the blue turban, making it a luxurious detail. The simplicity of the composition emphasizes the girl's captivating presence, drawing the viewer into her world of silent mystery.
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Girl with a Pearl Earring
Johannes Vermeer, c. 1665
