← Masterpieces

View of Delft

Johannes Vermeer · 1661 · Mauritshuis, The Hague
View of Delft

The artist

Johannes Vermeer, a Dutch painter famous for calm scenes and beautiful light in his home town of Delft.

What you see

A whole town sits by the water under a big cloudy sky, with boats resting near the shore.

The story

Vermeer painted his own city of Delft around 1661, showing its walls, towers, and quiet harbor.

The style

He caught the way sunlight breaks through clouds and sparkles on rooftops and gentle water.

Look closer

Look at the tiny golden sparkles on the boats and walls, made from little touches of bright paint.

Where to see it

You can see this painting at the Mauritshuis museum in The Hague, a small museum full of treasures.

Fun fact

Many people call it one of the most beautiful city views ever painted, and it still looks fresh today.