In collaboration with the Rijksmuseum, you’ll be taken on a visual journey through the complete oeuvre of the Delft master. Whether you listen to the distinctive voice of Stephen Fry or the compelling narration of Joy Delima, Vermeer has never been this close.
The complete oeuvre on a screen
Johannes Vermeer (1632–1675) left behind a modest yet world-famous oeuvre of just 37 known works. Think of icons such as The Milkmaid, The Little Street and, of course, Girl with a Pearl Earring.
In this digital journey of discovery, all 37 paintings are displayed in stunning high-resolution images. These include not only the 28 works from the record-breaking exhibition at the Rijksmuseum in 2023, but also the remaining nine paintings attributed to the master. A unique opportunity to explore his entire world of tranquil, introverted scenes and illusionism.
Zoom in to the pigment grain
What makes this experience truly special is the technology behind the images. Several paintings have been photographed at an ultra-high resolution of 5 micrometres – that is 10 to 20 times thinner than a human hair!
This allows you to zoom in until you can see the craquelure and the minute dots of paint in razor-sharp detail.
Discover the common thread: pearls, maps and light
Whilst many interactive tours focus on one painting at a time, ‘Closer to Vermeer’ is all about the connections. Through clever cropping and movement, the works are placed side by side, revealing patterns you would otherwise never notice:
- Recurring objects: See how pearls, heavy curtains and detailed wall maps recur in different rooms.
- The light of Delft: Compare the iconic play of light across the decades.
- Emotions: Experience the shared sense of stillness and wonder that runs like a thread through his groups of paintings.
Become the curator yourself
The discovery tour brings all 37 paintings together. You don’t just have to watch; you can get involved yourself! Select specific themes or subjects and create your own Vermeer story.
Experience the magic
Want to experience the magic on a grand scale? The discovery tour is now available at the Vermeer Centrum Delft. At an impressive interactive table featuring no fewer than 8 digital screens, you can unravel the stories behind the paintings yourself.
What secrets will you discover in the work of the master of light?
