This may be one of the three paintings by Vermeer that were described in an Amsterdam auction of 1696 as "A 'face' [tronie] in an antique dress, uncommonly artful." Although a live model must have been employed, the artist's goal was not portraiture but a study of character and expression. Dutch pictures of this type (tronies) often feature curious costumes and artistic effects, such as the fall of light on fine fabrics, soft skin, or a pearl earring.
Study of Young Woman
oil on canvas • 44.5 x 40 cm
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Johannes Vermeer