Period Dutch Architecture / New Exhibition at D. Thomas Fine Miniatures

D. Thomas Fine Miniatures is pleased to announce the opening of a new
exhibition, "The Little House: a Celebration of the Preservation of
Period Dutch Architecture in Fine Miniature Scale". This special
exhibit will feature signature works from the Dutch craftsman, Gerard Klein Hofmeijer, including his signature piece, “Vlamingstraat 42, Delft" created from his study of Vermeers's "The Little Street."

Mr. Klein Hofmeijer, a native of Utrecht,
The Netherlands, is a classically trained scientist who has admired,
loved and constructed miniatures since childhood. Klein Hofmeijer works
in a variety of scales between 1:50 and 1:100 to replicate historic
buildings, houses, garden vignettes and 3D facades. His work offers a
glimpse into the classic Dutch architectural style of the past and Dutch
influence on contemporary design.

“The Little Street” is significant to the study of Vermeer since it is one
of only two of the artist’s paintings of views of Delft. The painting
has been the topic of much research and dispute regarding the actual
location, concluding the site is the present-day 40-42 Vlamingstraat
based on substantial archival research of 17th Century Delft quay dues
registers. Mr. Klein Hofmeijer’s miniature façade offers us the only
known full view of the house, shown partially in Vermeer’s painting and
provides a 21st Century insight into a period architecture and life in a
Dutch Golden Age town. Gerard’s painstaking attention to detail
includes individual bricks, sized according to the painting, etched in
messing and adorned with mat varnish and pigments to create consummate
accuracy in relief and color. His details include cracks in the mortar,
aging paint on wooden shutters and an intricate stone sidewalk.

"I feel privileged to show Gerard’s work in my Gallery this fall” says
Darren T. Scala, exhibit curator. “Gerard’s unique techniques, attention
to detail and quest for historic accuracy is unparalleled. It offers us
a look at the culture that helped to settle the five boroughs of New
York City and the lower Hudson Valley and helps us recognize many of the
details we see in the architecture that surrounds us today."

"The Little House” will run from November 12, 2016 through January 17, 2017
in the Gallery at D. Thomas Fine Miniatures in the historic MovieHouse
Mews in Hastings-on-Hudson. Gerard and his wife Pien Spijkers, an
architectural draftsman and photographer, will travel to the lower
Hudson Valley and be part of a special open house reception/meet the
artist on Sunday, November 13, 2016 from 3:00-5:00 PM. Gerard has
graciously agreed to bring some of his tools for his informal discussion
and demonstration of his techniques during his visit. This event
coincides with 5 Dutch Days, hosted by the Netherland-America Foundation, and celebrates the Dutch arts and culture in New York City with a series of events and activities.

ABOUT D. THOMAS FINE MINIATURES

D. Thomas Fine Miniatures is a retail destination featuring artisan
dollhouses and top quality collectibles including 1/12th scale furniture
and accessories. The shop also offers workshops and classes taught by
master artisans. The concept, designed to appeal to collectors, crafters
and enthusiasts at all skill levels and abilities, was created, in
part, to raise awareness of miniatures as a decorative art form and to
introduce the discipline not only to a new generation but to those who
may just be discovering it!

The shop also features a gallery space showcasing works in miniature by well-known artists from all over the world.

D. Thomas Fine Miniatures is located at 579 Warburton Avenue in the
village of Hastings-on-Hudson NY. Gallery and shop hours are Tuesday
through Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and Sunday from Noon to 5:00
pm. Evening hours are available by appointment.