Scientists have found out why the famous painting by Jan Vermeer "captures our minds"

Scientists have solved one of the greatest artistic mysteries, explaining the phenomenal popularity of Jan Vermeer's painting Girl with a Pearl Earring. Using neurotechnologies, they found that the painting has a unique ability to attract and hold the attention of viewers, creating a special neural response in the brain.

Researchers from the Mauritshuis Museum, where the masterpiece is kept, have found through EEG and MRI scans that when viewing the painting, the areas responsible for consciousness and personal identity are activated in the brain, Science Alert writes.

The viewer's gaze seems to focus on three key elements: the eye, the mouth, and the pearl, creating the effect of a "constant attention loop." This mechanism makes us look at the painting longer and dive deeper into its image.

"Girl with a Pearl Earring" is not just a portrait, it is a real eye magnet. Her eyes seem to look directly at us, creating a sense of personal contact. This effect is enhanced by the contrast between the bright pearl and the dark background, as well as the soft lines of the girl's face.

Comparing the brain's response to an original and a reproduction of a painting has shown that an authentic painting evokes much stronger emotions in viewers. This suggests that the original artwork has a special energy that cannot be conveyed by a copy.

Scientists believe that the discovery of the mechanism of action of the Girl with a Pearl Earring may have important implications for understanding the perception of art. They plan to conduct further research to find out if there are similar effects in other famous paintings.

The results of this study confirm that art can affect our brains on a deep level. They also remind us of the importance of direct contact with the original work of art, because it is the original that can evoke the strongest emotions and impressions.

If you want to get the latest news about the war and events in Ukraine, subscribe to our Telegram channel!