Rendering №1

The article “Timeless Dutch painting displayed at de Young Museum” was published on January 31, 2013 in “The Daily Califonian”. It discusses the exhibition, where “Girl with a Pearl Earring: Dutch Paintings from the Mauritshuis,” is a carefully selected group of 17th century Dutch paintings originally from the Netherlands’s Royal Picture Gallery Mauritshuis, which is currently undergoing a major renovation. Addy Bhasin points out that known as the “Dutch Mona Lisa,” “Girl with a Pearl Earring” has seen much popularity in the last couple decades. The author makes clear that Author Tracy Chevalier based her 1999 novel “Girl with a Pearl Earring” on the famous Vermeer portrait. It is necessary to mention that little is known about Vermeer or the model of the world-renowned portrait. Analyzing the picture the author explains that the subtle flashes of light on the earring and in the eyes give the painting a mysterious effect of capturing a moment in time.

There are signs which set this portrait apart from others is the compelling expression of the girl. Her eyes immediately silence you — something that is apparent only in her presence. The correspondent mentions that she is small, but she is captivating; the aura of tranquility surrounding the portrait can be felt. Something important to note is how splendidly preserved the painting is. Recent renovations have been applied to it including varnishing and retouching to remove cracks in the paint. Though “Girl with a Pearl Earring” is certainly a good reason to make a trip to the de Young Museum in the coming weeks, other pieces should not be missed.  The journalist explains that an impressive collection of Rembrandt van Rijn’s portraits, sketches and etchings can be viewed in “Rembrandt’s Century,” a display that one can gain entry to with a ticket for the “Girl with a Pearl Earring” exhibition.  Highlights include Pieter Claesz’s “Still Life with a Lighted Candle” and Jacques Linard’s “Still Life of Exotic Shells,” along with a series of Jacob van Ruisdael’s portraits of the natural world and William Heda’s vanitas paintings.  It is an open secret that these works of art paint the Netherlands in a luxurious light. The display of exotic seashells, blooming bouquets and rich still life scenes reflects the opulent taste and wealth of the Dutch Golden Age of painting.

In conclusion Addy Bhasin told that the beauty of the majestic, turbaned woman is not temporary and with the beautiful refurbishing she will certainly draw crowds this spring. As for me, I like this picture because it makes me think about beauty of our world. Art always helps people to express their feelings or just enjoy it. And, of course, I agree with the author that “Girl with a Pearl Earring” will transport us to a world of yore — where beauty lay in invisible brushstrokes and piercing eyes.