I was lucky enough to visit the breathtaking 'Vermeer' exhibition at the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, in March. Bringing together 28 of Vermeer's paintings, three-quarters of his 37 surviving works, the superb simplicity of the displays showcase the pictures brilliantly, often alone in one room, or in spotlights of pairs or small groups. Basic labels, detailing only the title and where the picture belongs, are placed next to the paintings, with wall texts reserved for other parts of the rooms, encouraging the visitor to really look at and contemplate the paintings uninterrupted by searching for information.
I took a photo of each painting included in the exhibition, which I'm sharing in order to give a sense of the mesmerising beauty of Vermeer's tranquil yet mysterious world, whether it be in his domestic interiors, outdoor scenes, or religious and mythological subjects.
The precision with which Vermeer observed the fall of light and its effects in his paintings is absolutely exquisite and the talent and skill he possessed with which to realise these qualities in painting quite phenomenal. I especially admire his use of white highlights on fabrics, faces, windows and walls and the way in which and spaces open and close in the peaceful scenes of Vermeer's pictures.
As the Director of the Rijksmuseum says "Vermeer's paintings make an indelible impression. The intimate restraint of his work makes time stand still for a moment in a world that is moving at such a relentless pace."
