Symbolism

The Women of Dignity portrays two women with markedly long necks, wide eyes, and large, round heads whose sizes are disproportionate to the size of their body. The painting symbolic as it embodies the unique, non-naturalistic style of representation in African art.

Color explosion

As is common in Moyo’s works, one sees the rich use of different colours – yellow, blue, white, brown, green, orange, and black.

Etching patterns

The patterns were etched as a decorative composition after the painting was done on the canvas.

Connected to culture

Moyo never lost touch with his home and his art was centered on his indigenous Yoruba heritage. The piece seeks to celebrate African women and the pride of womanhood.

Inspired by traditional textiles

The textural patterns all over the painting are inspired by the patterns commonly found on the Yoruba textile.

Feeling reflective

Vermeer's attention to light and detail make this painting a true masterpiece, and give it a reflective atmosphere – maybe best captured in the water's reflections themselves.

Cracking sky

If you get up close to Vermeer's sky, you can see how the paint has start to crack over the years.

A famous skyline

Delft's characteristic buildings are painted with very fine detail. In fact, Vermeer neatened up the buildings to look more clean and crisp than they did in real life!

A brave new world

The Dutch Golden Age saw The Netherlands lead the world in science, art, military power, and commerce. Vermeer paints this ocean-going galley with gold flecks, a symbol of the Golden Age.

Light and dark

This work views Delft from the south and Vermeer painted the city contrasting with patches of sun and shade.