Arnolfini Double Portrait
Arnolfini Double Portrait
Explain whether you agree with the interpretation of either Sayre or Koster of Van Eyck’s Amolfini double portrait, identifying the most persuasive part of that interpretation. Describe two (2) symbolic elements of the painting and any other features that stand out to you. Pretend you are having a portrait done of you and a significant other; describe at least four symbolic elements that you might include in the painting, and explain why.
Explore
Jan Van Eyck’s Amolfini Double Portrait
Henry Sayre’s interpretation in text book The Humanities Cultures, Continuity & Change in chapter 16 (pp. 548-551)
Margaret Koster’s interpretation at http://www.thefreelibrary.
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Answer preview……………
I agree with the interpretation of Arnolfini’s double portrait by Koster, which explains that the portrait is a commemoration of Giovanni’s deceased wife, Constanza; with their hands holding as he takes an oath (The Free Library, 2017). The part of the interpretation that is most persuasive is that Arnolfini in not holding his wife’s right but left hand with his right hand raised. This is a clear evidence of a man taking an oath to the woman, and therefore it was a marriage contract. The fact that Arnolfini was holding the woman further indicates that there was a marriage oath between people who were not equals. Additionally, the fact that there are two people standing in the doorway and Arnolfini is holding his wife’s hand indicates that they are.
APA 453 words