Vermeer: Classic 2015 (Phaidon Classics)

Celebrates one of the greatest painters of the Dutch Golden Age with luxurious, large-format images

Johannes Vermeer (1632-75) is one of the most beloved artists of the Dutch Golden Age. Vermeer's tranquil and meticulously painted interiors, of such subjects as women writing or reading love letters, and men and women drinking together or playing musical instruments, are acutely observed and have an enduring appeal. This sumptuously produced volume features full-colour reproductions of all 36 surviving works by the artist, along with numerous details that reveal the exquisite complexity of his paintings.

An updated essay for the 1958 edition by Ludwig Goldscheider, co-founder of Phaidon Press, is accompanied by a new preface from Dutch painting specialist Wayne Franits, putting Vermeer into a contemporary context. Elegant design, fine papers and tipped-on image plates make this a true collector's edition.