The works of Johannes Vermeer, a master of the art world hailing from the Netherlands, boast enduring popularity both domestically and internationally. Whenever an exhibition is organized, it inevitably becomes overcrowded, making it challenging for visitors to thoroughly appreciate each artwork.
During the exhibitions held in Tokyo and Osaka from 2018 to 2019, entry restrictions and specified viewing times were implemented due to the overwhelming demand.
It is said that there are only 35 Vermeer paintings in existence, which adds to their rarity and allure, captivating the hearts of many.
This time, we will introduce four of Vermeer’s works currently on display at the National Gallery in Washington, D.C.
Located to the northeast of the National Archives on the National Ma...
Four Works on Display at the National Gallery
Out of the mere 35 Vermeer paintings in existence, the National Gallery has four of them on public display.
All four pieces can be found in Gallery 50A on the Main Floor of the West Building, where visitors can take their time to appreciate them.
Now, let’s introduce the Vermeer paintings housed at the National Gallery.
“The Woman Holding a Balance”
Most of Vermeer’s works are set in his studio. The studio features clever mechanisms to manipulate light, but did you know that the light entering from the upper left of this painting is not natural light?
There is a device installed in the window in this painting, deliberately causing a part of the window glass to be broken. If the glass were intact, the light entering here would be darker, and without any glass, the natural light would flood in excessively, creating too bright an effect.
Vermeer’s skillful manipulation of light and incorporation into his paintings continues to enchant viewers even today.
“Woman with a Flute”
In contrast to “The Woman Holding a Balance,” this painting has light coming in from the right side, giving it the appearance of a completely different location despite being set in the same studio.
The green garment worn by the woman in the painting is created by mixing Vermeer’s favored blue and yellow colors. Pay attention to the contrast between the right side of the garment, illuminated by light, which exhibits texture through shading, and the left side, barely touched by light and depicted as almost completely dark.
“Woman Writing a Letter”
Similar to “The Woman Holding a Balance,” light enters this painting from the left.
The woman’s attire and accessories suggest she is of noble standing, and her elegant gaze while writing the letter is quite striking.
The blue color used for the woman’s clothing, like in previous paintings, is Vermeer’s signature color, often referred to as “Vermeer Blue.” Compared to other famous Vermeer paintings such as “Girl with a Pearl Earring” or “The Milkmaid,” this artwork features a more subdued use of blue, allowing the red hat to stand out.
“Girl with a Red Hat”
This vibrant painting, characterized by a vivid red hat and blue clothing, captivated many Japanese visitors during the limited exhibition held in Ueno from 2018 to 2019.
The blue used in this painting is also Vermeer’s beloved color, known as “Vermeer Blue.” While works like “Girl with a Pearl Earring” and “The Milkmaid” prominently feature this blue, “Girl with a Red Hat” subtly incorporates it to enhance the prominence of the red hat.
Admiring Vermeer’s Paintings in Washington, D.C.
Known as the Sorcerer of Light, Vermeer’s paintings are a rare sight, with only around 35 in existence. At the National Gallery in Washington, D.C., visitors have the opportunity to view four of these precious works.
While Vermeer’s paintings are scattered across the world, the National Gallery is one of the few places where these four pieces are permanently displayed together.
For Vermeer enthusiasts and all art lovers, the National Gallery stands as a majestic temple of beauty.
