‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’ by Johannes Vermeer is one of the most enduring paintings in the history of art. Even today, its recent world tour garnered huge queues lining up for the briefest glimpse of its majestic beauty – in Japan 1.2 million people came to see the exhibition. Yet the painting itself is surrounded by mystery. This beautifully film seeks to investigate the many unanswered questions associated with this extraordinary piece. Who was this girl? Why and how was it painted? Why is it so revered?

After its world tour, the Girl with a Pearl Earring returned to the much-loved Mauritshuis in The Hague, Netherlands, which had just completed extensive renovations. Enjoying unparalleled exclusive access to this historical gallery, the film takes the audience on a journey as it seeks to answer many of the questions surrounding this enigmatic painting and its mysterious creator Vermeer. This film is a gripping detective story and a visual feast.