The Miniaturist

Nella believes she is alone in the house when a handsome young man knocks at the door. He introduces himself as Jack Philips, a former actor from London. Jack reveals that he is now a delivery boy for various employers. On hearing Jack’s voice, Johannes emerges from his study and seems agitated. Jack gives Nella a parcel from the miniaturist. Written on the package are the words, “EVERY WOMAN IS THE ARCHITECT OF HER OWN FORTUNE” (76).

Inside Nella’s parcel are the miniatures she asked for, beautifully crafted. There are also unrequested items: two chairs identical to ones in the house, a wooden cradle, and replicas of Johannes’s whippets, Rezeki and Dhana. Disturbed, Nella writes to the miniaturist, saying she wants no further business with them. Nevertheless, she places the unasked-for pieces in the cabinet.

The next evening, Johannes takes Nella to a feast at the Guild of Silversmiths. Before they leave, Marin instructs Johannes to talk to the Meermanses and ask them to dinner.

Nella and Johannes travel to the event on a barge. Johannes explains to Nella that the guilds are powerful in Amsterdam because they control market prices.