In recently writing an article about Pieter de Hooch for Answers.com, it occurred to me that despite a few “eye candy” posts, I haven’t done an update with current links and resources since my original article about him in 2008.
Given the similarities between the compositions and subjects of de Hooch and his contemporary Vermeer, who both lived and worked in Delft at the same time, it’s easy to jump to the conclusion that the more accomplished, and currently more famous, Vermeer was a model and influence for the lesser known de Hooch. However, scholars indicate that the reverse is likely the case, particularly early on.
I just love de Hooch’s “keyhole paintings”, in which doorways open into other spaces, that often also have doorways that open into other spaces.
For more, see my previous post on Pieter de Hooch.