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' Woman Holding a Balance ' Vermeer Dutch 1632-1675 Oil on canvas circa 1657-1670
A young woman delicately holds a empty pair of scales in her right hand . She seems to be waiting for them to balance out before weighing something, probably the gold coins on the edge of the table.
Also on the table are some jewels , pearl necklace and a gold chain. On the far wall hangs a painting of the Last Judgement ( upper right ) while: on the left wall facing the woman is a mirror. The contrast between the valuable objects on the table , the Last Judgement and the scales ,symbols of the Judgement itself , are intended to the viewer of the importance of resisting the temptatation of earthly riches and living moderately in order to gain salvation . The calmness of the young woman's feature's indicate she is capable of living according to these principles . The subject of moderation appears in other paintings by Vermeer , such as The Girl with a Wine Glass.
See: Girl With a Red Hat
See: Girl With a Pearl Earing ( biography)
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