A Maid Asleep (1656–57)
Painted by the Dutch master Johannes Vermeer around 1656-57, A Maid Asleep is a remarkable example of Vermeer’s genre painting that offers a glimpse into everyday domestic life. The artwork depicts a young maid dozing off at a table, capturing the contemplative atmosphere and gentle light that is characteristic of Vermeer's style. With intricate techniques and a rich palette, this piece invites viewers to appreciate the quiet moments that populate the lives of women in the 17th-century Dutch interior. It is housed in The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.
Around 1656-57
About the Artwork
A Maid Asleep emerges from a time when the genre painting flourished in Dutch art, focusing on ordinary moments within domestic spaces. Vermeer, renowned for his ability to convey light and texture, captures the serenity and intimacy of a maid at rest. This scene not only showcases the subject's physical form but also reflects societal roles during the 17th century, marking a significant departure from historical or religious themes prevalent in previous art periods. The use of colors and the representation of textiles and light enhances the complexity of the work, inviting viewers to explore the interplay between daily life and artistic expression. The painting was gifted to The Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1913 by Benjamin Altman, further solidifying its legacy in the art world.
Click on the image to enlarge
Did You Know
A Maid Asleep is a prime example of the Dutch genre painting movement, which focused on everyday life and ordinary subjects, allowing viewers to connect with the intimate moments within homes.
Vermeer was renowned for his masterful use of light. In this painting, the soft illumination highlights the maid’s serene expression, demonstrating his ability to evoke mood and atmosphere through light.
The painting reflects cultural norms of 17th-century Netherlands, where women often held domestic roles. It captures the quiet dignity of these roles, presenting a story of labor and rest within the intimate surroundings of home.
