Arnolfini Wedding by Jan van Eyck (1434)
What we learned-
- The artist’s signature can be seen above the mirror, which reads “Johannes de Eyck fuit hic 1434” (Jan van Eyck was here, 1434).
- Several items related to the Flemish marriage tradition are incorporated in the painting, including: oranges, shoes, a broom hanging from the door frame and the bride’s covered head.
- Indicators of the couple’s wealth can be found in the amount of fabric in the bride’s dress as well as the size of the groom’s hat.
Discussion Questions:
- What is the mood of the painting? Why aren’t the bride & groom smiling?
- If the painting’s title did not include the word “wedding,” would you know this was a marriage portrait? Why or why not?
