This is ...my favorite painting

I stood in a rather short line to see the Vermeer exhibit when it came to Washington DC in 1995/6. I was one of the first group allowed in that day and I walked from room to room with few people around. When I saw this one, it took my breath away, and I was able to sit on a bench opposite the painting for about a half hour. By then more groups had been allowed in and it was time to move on.

In that time, I fell in love with The Geographer.





Although his gaze is directed toward the window, he is not distracted by something he sees outside. His facial expression and his posture indicate that he has just arrived at some important insight following a phase of concentrated contemplation. Staedel Museum Frankfurt.

When I met the man who is now my husband, after knowing him indirectly for quite a few years, I recognized my geographer. Past life? or just plain love...I'm not sure, but I'm happy.

What's your favorite painting? and does it have a story?