What secrets have been revealed after a close study of four of Vermeer’s paintings? Join the National Gallery Scientific department in their quest to find out more.
Vermeer and technique
Discover the techniques and materials behind four of Vermeer’s music-themed paintings on display in the exhibition 'Vermeer and Music: The Art of Love and Leisure' (26 June – 8 September 2013)
Introduction and methods
Support and ground
How were Vermeer's canvases prepared prior to painting?
Infrared examination
What lies beneath? Secrets under the paint surface.
Vermeer's palette
Explore colour and pigment in Vermeer’s painting.
Binding medium
Applying pigment to canvas: the use of oils and their effects.
Paint application
Learn about the techniques employed by Vermeer.
Secrets of the studio
Magnification and how it reveals hidden clues.
Ultramarine blanching
Impact of time: changes to the appearance of this blue pigment.
Fading of pigments
Observe the degradation of these pigments in Vermeer’s paintings.
Paint defects
Vermeer’s errors: an Old Master’s mistakes?
Lead and zinc soaps
Discover how the materials used in paintings alter with time.