Vermeer and technique
Content
Introduction
The extended loan of Vermeer's 'The Guitar Player' from Kenwood House enabled National Gallery researchers to analyse the painting's materials and closely study the techniques used.
Methods
Read about the methods used in the project.
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.