Vermeer: Masters of Art

by Maurizia Tazartes

This generously illustrated volume on the work of Vermeer makes the world's greatest art accessible to readers of every level of appreciation. A 17th-century Dutch painter who lived his entire life in Delft, Vermeer is renowned for his masterly use of light. Only a very small number of Vermeer's paintings are known to exist. Overflowing with impeccably reproduced images, this book offers full-page spreads of masterpieces as well as highlights of smaller details--allowing the viewer to appreciate every aspect of the artist's technique and oeuvre.

Genres: Art, Art History

160 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[iceberg · Rating 3 out of 5]

Contains the complete works of Vermeer (albeit without the recent restoration of Woman Reading a Letter), and includes several close-ups of more interesting details in each painting.

However, while the introduction is sufficiently lucid, the closing essay was a weird compilation of unrelated thoughts and snippets of information including a summary of the film Girl with a Pearl Earing for some reason. The book have been significantly better if each short paragraph was more fully developed and organized.

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn’t like the fact that, when describing a specific painting, they didn’t include a picture next to it. Especially in the introduction. But the information was very useful and actually interesting, although a bit repetitive at times. Overall, I enjoyed it but it’s not a favourite.

[Dawnmarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t put this book down, Vermeer is one of my favorite artists and this book details his works and his life, a very interesting read if you enjoy art or like Vermeer’s work.

[Adelbert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well researched. Great analysis of the known Vermeer paintings and what makes them unique and identifiable as the Master's work.

[Joshua Friesen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant work by the Dutch master.