Comparing The Painting 'Wedding Of Giovanni Arnolfini And His Bride'

Wedding Portrait or Giovanni Arnolfini and His Bride, Jan van Eyck’s 1434 oil painting on wood panel, is among the most famous paintings in Renaissance art. This painting not only is a double portrait but also visually certifies the wedding of Giovanni Arnolfini, an Italian merchant, and his betrothed in their Flemish home in Bruges. Van Eyck’s composition is filled with elaborate detail and complex symbolism. The use of oil paint instead of tempera paint allowed van Eyck to create the illusion of depth within his painting. He achieved the impression of three-dimensional forms through subtle variations in light and shade. “Look at the way the light comes in through this room and moves across the faces of the figures, their hands, across the furniture, on the chandelier, the little shadow cast by that bottom bar of the window…and [how it] brilliantly pick[s] up a …show more content…
There are several objects that imply the significant wealth of the couple. For example, both the woman’s gown and the man’s cloak are lined with fur, an expensive clothing material, and the oranges on the windowsill and chest, which were imported and therefore very expensive. Other indicators of wealth are the chandelier and the ornate mirror and carpet. In addition, the painting has spiritual symbolism. For instance, the removal of the couple’s shoes shows that they are on holy ground and the single lit candle in the chandelier signifies the presence of God. Also, the miniature medallions depicting scenes from the passion of Christ within the mirror’s frame can be interpreted as a promise of salvation for the couple (“Jan Van Eyck Arnolfini and His Bride”) and the dog at the feet of the couple is a symbol of fidelity. Furthermore, the portrait suggests fertility. In particular, the figure of Saint Margaret, the patron saint of childbirth, on the bedpost exemplifies the prayer for