Gallery Companion

The Night Watch Rembrandt, 1642 A city guard steps from darkness like a scene about to burst into noise. The Milkmaid Johannes Vermeer, 1658 A simple pour turns a kitchen corner into a whole quiet world. Girl with a Pearl Earring Johannes Vermeer, 1665 She turns for one breath, and the room seems to hold still. The Threatened Swan Jan Asselijn, 1650 A swan becomes a storm of feathers, fury, and protection. Self Portrait Vincent van Gogh, 1887 Fast strokes make a face feel restless, brave, and very alive. Flowers in a Vase Rachel Ruysch, 1700 A bouquet becomes a tiny stage for petals, insects, and time.