BOOK | Vermeer's World Through a Child's Eyes: "Miffy and Mr. Vermeer"

BOOK│Experiencing Vermeer Through a Child's Eyes

Miffy and Mr. Vermeer

Miffy, with her innocent and gentle spirit, is beloved by people of all ages worldwide. Miffy and Mr. Vermeer, a book that guides readers through the world of Dutch painter Vermeer, who was active in the 17th century, will be published by Bijutsu Shuppan-sha on June 7 (Thursday).

Text by YANAKA Tomomi

Tickets for the Mauritshuis Museum exhibition, bundled with the book, also on sale

What world unfolds when viewing masterpieces through a child's free imagination? Miffy and Mr. Vermeer takes readers on a journey through the paintings of Vermeer, known for "Girl with a Pearl Earring" and "The Milkmaid," from a child's perspective.

The book is designed by graphic designer and art director Atsuki Kikuchi, with text by copywriter Mika Kunii. The story unfolds as "Dad" gently explains and answers the child's simple questions, fostering imagination and encouraging further discussion. Furthermore, Vermeer's paintings and Miffy's illustrations are presented in a rhythmic sequence. Within the simple language, there are devices that allow for new discoveries about the art.

©Mercis bv

Additionally, two masterpieces by Vermeer, the renowned "Girl with a Pearl Earring" and his early work "Diana and her Nymphs," will be exhibited in Japan. At the Mauritshuis Museum exhibition, held from Saturday, June 30, to Monday, September 17, at the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, viewing tickets bundled with advance tickets and the book will be available for 2,400 yen.

Miffy and Mr. Vermeer teaches us new ways to appreciate masterpieces, prompted by the "whys" and "whats" that adults might overlook. It's not only enjoyable to share with children, but adults too will surely be struck by its warm and direct perspective.

©Mercis bv

Miffy and Mr. Vermeer
Release Date│June 7 (Thursday)
Publisher│Bijutsu Shuppan-sha
Price 1,575 yen

Bijutsu Shuppan-sha
Tel. 03-3234-2153

Applications have closed.
Thank you for your many applications.

Mauritshuis Museum Exhibition: Treasures of Dutch and Flemish Painting
Dates│Saturday, June 30, 2012 – Monday, September 17, 2012
Venue│Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, Special Exhibition Gallery
8-36 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Opening Hours│9:30 – 17:30 (Fridays until 20:00)
*Last admission 30 minutes before closing.
Closed│Mondays
*Open July 2, 16, September 17; Closed July 17.

Viewing Ticket with Miffy and Mr. Vermeer
General│2,400 yen
*Exchange at the venue entrance ticket gate during the exhibition period.
Sales Period│Friday, June 29
*Advance sales available until May 31 through JTB, online tickets on the official website, and Seven Ticket (Seven Code: 016-372).

Mauritshuis Museum Exhibition Inquiries
Tel. 03-5777-8600 (8:00 – 20:00, no holidays)
http://www.asahi.com/mauritshuis2012/