In a cobblestone street are two houses with a gate opening onto the passageway between them. A woman sits in an open doorway, busy sewing, two children are playing on the stoop. Soapy water is washing down a small runnel between the paving stones, probably the woman in the passageway has just scrubbed her part of the stoop. Vermeer has recorded this everyday scene with apparent casualness. Although world-famous, not much is known about Vermeer's Little Street. In fact the original location has never been identified, and indeed may never have existed. But more significant is the atmosphere of the picture. The women are diligently employed while the children are absorbed at play. The scene emanates tranquility and security. (http://www.rijksmuseum.nl)