Royal Picture Gallery ‘Mauritshuis’, The Hague
From May 12 through August 22, 2010

The paintings by master painter Johannes Vermeer (1632-1675) are famed throughout the world. Vermeer worked from 1653 until his death, and he left a limited, but unparalleled, oeuvre of 36 paintings. The young Vermeer began his career painting scenes derived from the Bible and classical mythology. As he progressed, Vermeer specialized in painting scenes that depicted daily life.

Early work of Johannes Vermeer differs greatly from his later work, especially in terms of style and subject matter. This early work is lesser known to the public. The exhibition 'The Young Vermeer' exhibits three paintings from the early days of Vermeer’s career: 'Diana and her Nymphs', 'Christ in the House of Martha and Mary', and 'The Procuress'. Vermeer’s later paintings 'View of Delft' and ‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’, from the permanent collection of the ‘Mauritshuis’, will also be on display. Therefore, the exhibition 'The Young Vermeer' presents no fewer than five paintings by Johannes Vermeer. This presentation makes the differences between the master’s early and later work abundantly clear. For more information concerning the Royal Picture Gallery ‘Mauritshuis’ please visit: http://www.mauritshuis.nl/index.aspx?ChapterID=4427&ContentID=41132