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Unlocking the Secrets of Vermeer's "Girl With the Pearl Earring": Neuroscience Reveals Its Allure

The Scientific Exploration of Vermeer's Masterpiece

A Study Commissioned by the Mauritshius Museum

Johannes Vermeer's "Girl With The Pearl Earring" is among the world's most iconic paintings, and scientists may have discovered why by analyzing brain responses to viewing the artwork.

Neuroscientists were commissioned by the Mauritshuis museum in The Hague, which displays the 17th-century masterpiece, to study brain responses to the painting and other famous works.

The Sustained Attentional Loop Phenomenon

Captivating Viewer Engagement

• The researchers identified a distinctive neurological phenomenon, termed the "Sustained Attentional Loop," which they believe uniquely captivates viewers of "Girl With The Pearl Earring."
• The viewer's gaze instinctively shifts from the girl's eye to her mouth, then to the pearl, and ultimately returns to her eye--repeating the cycle.

Insights from the Research Team

Martin de Munnik's Findings

According to Martin de Munnik of the research firm Neurenscis, this effect compels viewers to engage with the painting for longer periods compared to others.

"It captures focus involuntarily, and you find yourself drawn to her, even if you didn't intend to be," he explained.

The Role of the Precuneus

The study revealed, through brainwave measurement, that the precuneus, the area controlling consciousness and personal identity, experienced the greatest stimulation.

"We expected the Girl to be exceptional, but the reasons behind it were surprising even to us," stated De Munnik.

Innovative Technology in Art Analysis

He explained that this research was the first to utilize EEG and MRI technology to measure the brain's reaction to art.

According to him, extended gazes increase the perceived beauty or attractivenes of a person, which further elucidates the popularity of the subjects in the Dutch master's works.

"What distinguishes your familiarity with this painting compared to others? It is due to the unique quality she possesses."

Emotional Responses to Original Artwork

Original vs. Reproduction

The scientists compared the neurological responses elicited by viewing the original painting in the museum and its reproduction.

The researchers found that viewers experienced an emotional reaction that was tenfold stronger for the original for the poster.

Methodology of the Study

The scientists implemented the tests by attaching an eye tracker and brainwave cap to ten subjects, allowing them to observe both real paintings and their reproductions.

The Importance of Engaging with Art

Insights from Martine Gosselink

According to Mauritshuis Director Martine Gosselink, it emphasizes the importance of engaging with original art.

"Engaging with art is crucial, whether it involves photography, dance or masterpieces from the 17th century," the 55-year-old director shared with AFP during an interview.

"It is essential, and it greatly contributes to cognitive development... The brain is always hones," she added.

Unique Aspects of "Girl With The Pearl Earring"

Vermeer's Artistic Techniques

Vermeer frequently directed attention to a specific area in his paintings, while the surrounding elements appeared more indistinct, she explained.

The "Girl With The Pearl Earring" distinguishes itself from Vermeer's other paintings by featuring three focal points--the eye, mouth, and pearl---Gosselink explained.

"In this painting, we observe a figure truly engaging with the viewer, unlike Vermeer's other works where subjects are often depicted writing, sewing, or occupied with some task," she remarked.

"Yet, the significant difference with this girl is that she is looking directly at you."

Future Research Directions

Interest in Other Iconic Artworks

De Munnik, 65, expressed interest in conducting similar studies on other renowned artworks, including Da Vinci's Mona Lisa.

Mauritshuis director Gosselink hinted at a cordial competition between the two iconic artworks.

A Humorous Perspective

She humorously remarked, "While people often refer to The Girl With The Pearl Earring as the Mona Lisa of the North, I believe times are changing, so perhaps the Mona Lisa could now be seen as the Girl of the South."

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