Looking at the title only, you may mistake this book as an art book that introduces Vermeer’s artworks. But in fact, this book starts from the details in seven of his paintings to explore the drastic social changes that took place in the 17th century. Beginning with details like a hat, a porcelain dish, gold and silver, and a globe, the author tells fascinating stories that vividly present a picture of the trade and communication between China and the West in the 17th century.