In Delft, Netherlands, in 1930, the young painter Johann Gelder received the city medal for his virtuoso technique and promising talent. He falls in love with Héléna, whose notable father is not convinced by his painting.
Johann, married to Héléna, maintains a passionate affair with her sister, Saskia, married to his best friend. His exhibition is a failure. He fled to France with Saskia.
On the Côte d'Azur, Johann lives the good life with Saskia. He continued his activity as a forger, painting imitations of Vermeer and selling them,thanks to his friend Escher.
Back in Amsterdam, Gelder is arrested for collaboration with the Nazis. He reveals the truth about the Vermeers acquired by Goering and by the Boymans museum. Even if it means causing an international scandal.