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| Field name | Value |
|---|---|
| Title | View of Delft, Johannes Vermeer |
| Library | Mauritshuis |
| Date | 1660 or 1661 |
| Description | Vermeer's View of Delft is the most renowned townscape of seventeenth century Dutch art. The transparency of its light, the majesty of its cloudy sky and the subtle reflections in the water all contribute to its overpowering impression. Vermeer depicted the city from the southeast, with the Schie Canal in the foreground. Clouds drift past high above the city. A large dark cloud casts shadows on the water and the buildings in front. The roofs somewhat further away are lit by sunshine. This creates a feeling of great depth because the light draws our eyes deep into the picture. All motion has ceased; a sense of rest hangs over the scene. The boats are moored with lowered sails. A gentle breeze ruffles the surface of the water. Passers-by converse. The trees are in leaf, so it must be late spring or summer, and some time in the morning, because the sun is in the east. The painting mirrors the reality of Delft 350 years ago. |
| Document Type | Painting |
| Primary Commodity | Miscellaneous |
| Theme | Trade and Commerce; Art and Literature |
| Keywords | commerce, empire, importation, exportation, harbour, merchant, port |
| Region | Europe |
| Places | Netherlands |
| Copyright | Johannes Vermeer, 1632-1675, View of Delft, c. 1660-1661, Canvas, 96.5 x 115.7, Mauritshuis, The Hague |