This exhibition explores the various means of communication of 17th-century Dutch society, including the exchange of letters and documents between family members, couples and business workers. Dutch painters of that time often depicted people writing and reading, focusing on the subtle expressions of the subjects.
The highlights of the show are three paintings by the 17th-century Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer (1632-75): "Lady Writing" (c. 1665); "Lady Writing a Letter with her Maid" (c. 1670); and "Woman in Blue Reading a Letter" (1663-64), which is being shown in Japan for the first time. Also on display are works by other Dutch painters such as Pieter de Hooch, Gerard ter Borch and Gabriël Metsu; June 25-Oct. 16.
Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art, (075) 771-4107, 124 Okazaki Enshoji-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto; 10-min. walk from Higashiyama Station, Tozai Line. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. ¥1,500. Closed Mon.; open July 18, Sept. 19, Oct. 10. vermeer-message.com.
