This lively portrait of the artist and his environment helpsreaders become acquainted with the life and times of JanVermeer. With only 37 known works, Vermeer s oeuvreaffords readers an opportunity to become intimatelyacquainted with his paintings and with daily life inseventeenth-century Holland. Here readers will learn aboutthe Golden Age of Dutch artistry, the culture and communityof Delft, and how Vermeer revolutionized the style andcontent of portraits and still-lifes. Written in an engaging,journalistic style and including full-color reproductions, thisvolume will give readers a glimpse into Vermeer s private lifeand the inspirations behind his paintings, giving insight intoa genius whose work continues to intrigue us today.