Those eyes are fixed on someone. But who? What is she thinking as she stares out from one of the world's best-loved paintings? Johannes Vermeer can spot exceptional beauty. When servant girl Griet catches his eye, she soon becomes both student and muse.

But then he gives her his wife's pearl earrings to wear for a portrait, and a scandal erupts that could threaten Griet's future... Vivid and captivating, this timeless modern classic has become a successful film and an international bestseller, with over 5 million copies sold around the world; now with a new introduction by the author.