Hendrickje Stoffels

Hendrickje Stoffels was a close associate and muse of the Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer in the 17th century. She was his apprentice’s servant and later became his partner after Vermeer’s wife passed away. Hendrickje played a significant role in Vermeer’s life and work, often modeling for his paintings. Her presence helped sustain Vermeer's artistic career, and their relationship reflected the social norms of the time, as they were not married officially. Today, she is recognized for her influence on Vermeer’s art and as an important figure in 17th-century Dutch cultural history.