It may be one of three paintings by Vermeer described in an Amsterdam auction in 1696 as "A 'face' in an antique dress, of uncommon art." Although a live model must have been employed, the artist's objective was not portraiture, but a study of character and expression. Dutch paintings of this type, called tronies, often feature curious costumes and artistic effects, such as light falling on fine fabrics, soft skin, or a pearl earring. See more
However, it is certain that Vermeer's paintings of young women in bust form were not intended to be portraits, even if a live model was employed. In contemporary inventories, including that of Vermeer's estate, paintings of this type were called tronies, a term now lost that could be translated as heads, faces or expressions. Vermeer had a habit of depicting intriguing types of characters in exotic or imaginary costumes.