A new theory presented by art historian Andrew Graham-Dixon suggests a potential identity for the mysterious subject in Johannes Vermeer's iconic 1665 painting, "Girl with a Pearl Earring." For centuries, the identity of the young woman has been one of art's most debated topics. Graham-Dixon proposes the girl is Magdalena van Ruijven, the daughter of Vermeer's primary patron.
Key Takeaways
- Art historian Andrew Graham-Dixon theorizes the subject is Magdalena van Ruijven, daughter of Vermeer's main patron.
- The theory connects the painting to the religious beliefs of the patron's family, who were members of a Christian sect called the Remonstrants.
- The girl's attire is interpreted as a depiction of Mary Magdalene, a significant figure for the Remonstrants.
- Other experts maintain the painting is likely a "tronie," a study of an imaginary figure, not a formal portrait of a specific person.
A New Theory Links Patronage and Faith
The argument for Magdalena van Ruijven's identity is detailed in Andrew Graham-Dixon's book, "Vermeer: A Life Lost and Found." The theory is built upon the close relationship between the artist and his most significant patrons in Delft, Netherlands: Pieter Claeszoon van Ruijven and his wife, Maria de Knuijt.
According to Graham-Dixon, Vermeer worked almost exclusively for this couple. This professional intimacy suggests that the artist's work was deeply intertwined with the family's life and values. This connection forms the foundation of the new identification.
The Patron's Daughter
Graham-Dixon suggests that the girl in the painting is the couple's daughter, Magdalena. At the time the painting was created, she would have been around 10 to 12 years old. The theory posits that this was not just a simple portrait but a piece with deep personal and religious meaning for the family.
The van Ruijven family, and Vermeer himself, were reportedly connected to a radical Christian sect known as the Remonstrants. This religious context is central to Graham-Dixon's interpretation of the painting's details.
Who Were the Remonstrants?
The Remonstrants were a Protestant group that emerged in the early 17th century in the Netherlands. They challenged some core tenets of Calvinism, particularly regarding predestination. They emphasized personal belief and a direct relationship with God. The Collegiants were a more radical offshoot of this movement, in which the van Ruijven family was reportedly involved.
Symbolism in the Portrait
A key part of the theory rests on the girl's appearance. She wears an exotic-looking turban and a prominent pearl earring. Graham-Dixon argues that she is dressed to represent Mary Magdalene, a follower of Jesus who was a central figure in Remonstrant theology.
He claims, “She (Magdalena) would have been 12 in the autumn of 1667, and assuming that she was a Collegiant, a more radical outgrowth like her parents, she would have solemnized her commitment to Christ at that age.” This timing aligns with the potential creation of the portrait as a commemoration of a significant religious milestone in a young girl's life.
This interpretation suggests every element in Vermeer's paintings for the family was “inspired by the religious beliefs cherished by Marie de Knuijt and those close to her, who included Vermeer himself.”
Counterarguments and the Enduring Mystery
Despite the detailed theory, many art historians remain unconvinced. The prevailing view is that "Girl with a Pearl Earring" is not a traditional portrait but another type of painting popular in the Dutch Golden Age.
The 'Tronie' Debate
A significant counterargument is that the painting is a "tronie." A tronie is a study of a head or figure that is not meant to be an identifiable person but rather an exploration of character, expression, or an interesting costume.
What is a Tronie?
Popular with Dutch artists like Rembrandt and Vermeer in the 17th century, a tronie was a type of painting that focused on exaggerated facial expressions or stock characters in costume. The goal was to showcase an artist's skill rather than to create a likeness of a specific individual.
Ruth Millington, author of "Muse: Uncovering the Hidden Figures Behind Art History’s Masterpieces,” supports this view. She believes the painting's appeal is rooted in its ambiguity.
“The allure of this painting is the mystery of the muse. It’s not meant to be a direct portrait of a sitter who can be easily identified, but rather a ‘tronie,’ a picture of an imaginary figure. Too often, people read paintings as purely biographical when there’s more complexity to them.”
The Power of an Unresolved Image
This sentiment is shared by others who have studied the artwork's cultural impact. Tracy Chevalier, whose novel "Girl with a Pearl Earring" inspired the 2003 film starring Scarlett Johansson, argues that solving the mystery would diminish the painting's power.
Chevalier stated that the “image works because it is unresolved.” She highlights the viewer's inability to know exactly what the subject is thinking or feeling as the core of its enduring fascination.
“You can’t ever answer the question of what she’s thinking or how she’s feeling. If it were resolved, then you’d move onto the next painting.”
Vermeer and His Legacy of Ambiguity
Johannes Vermeer (1632-1675) is known for his masterful use of light and his enigmatic scenes of domestic life. Unlike many of his contemporaries, he produced a relatively small number of paintings, with only about 34 works attributed to him today.
His technique often involved leaving narratives open to interpretation, inviting viewers to ponder the meaning behind his quiet, intimate scenes. This intentional ambiguity is a hallmark of his style, which makes definitive interpretations of his work challenging.
Whether "Girl with a Pearl Earring" depicts Magdalena van Ruijven or an anonymous, imaginary figure, the debate itself contributes to the painting's status as one of the most beloved and recognized works of art in the world. Graham-Dixon's theory adds a new, compelling layer to a 360-year-old discussion, ensuring the mystery will continue for years to come.