Overview

The theme of writing and receiving letters, a subject that recurs frequently in the work of Johannes Vermeer, is given dramatic tension in three iconic paintings in which elegantly dressed women eagerly await correspondence, subtly hinting at themes of love and longing. Centered on the motif of letter writing, this book unites three iconic Vermeer paintings—Mistress and Maid (The Frick Collection), The Love Letter (Rijksmuseum), and Woman Writing a Letter, with Her Maid (National Gallery of Ireland)—delving into the enigmatic allure of the Dutch painter's work. Vermeer’s artistry is renowned for encapsulating moments of intrigue and intimacy amidst the domestic scenes of Dutch life. Through masterful manipulation of light and perspective, he imbues his paintings with symbolic depth, exploring themes of communication, secrecy, and emotional connection. Through meticulous analysis, this publication explores the profound thematic undercurrents binding these masterpieces, shedding light on Vermeer’s legacy and his ability to capture moments of intimacy with unparalleled depth. Examining the implied and explicit meanings of the works, the publication offers a scholarly dialogue between past and present interpretations, questioning whether the works serve as complex allegories or straight-forward depictions of Dutch upper-middle-class life. Additionally, other paintings by Vermeer, Gerard ter Borch, Gabriel Metsu, and Rembrandt are explored, addressing the relevance of their comparable images and offering a fresh perspective on the enduring relevance of Vermeer’s artistry.

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Robert Fucci is a specialist in seventeenth-century Dutch and Flemish art, a lecturer in art history at the University of Amsterdam, and a contributor to the exhibition catalogue Vermeer: On Reflection (2021).

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