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 Klimt'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.

The Wind God

Facing the Thunder God, on the other side of the opening screen, The Wind God marches forward with a billowing sail, sharp claws, and an eager grin.

Controlling winds

The inky clouds rear up as if controlled by the Wind God. Who will come out on top in this epic clash of the elements?

Painting on panels

This work has been created on a fusuma (a sliding door). You can see how the work is separated by these panels.

Tarashikomi technique

The clouds are drawn with ink using the 'Tarashikomi' technique and bold brush strokes, giving the screen a complex tone and movement.