Course Readings: Web Gallery

Giovanni Arnolfini and Jeanne Cenami (1434) by Jan van Eyck

An Italian merchant visiting Bruges on business, Giovanni Arnolfini met and married Jeanne Cenami (Jeanne de Chenany). Most art historians agree that this painting has something to do with the wedding. Some have gone so far as to argue that this piece constitutes a legal document representing the marriage. Below the chandelier and above the mirror, van Eyck wrote "Johannes de Eyck fuit hic" ("Jan van Eyck was here") as if he were one of the necessary legal witnesses.

A variety of symbols and interesting elements appear in this piece. The round mirror in the back of the room not only reveals the bride and groom, but also two other figures, one of whom must have been the artist (marriages then, as now, require witnesses). The woodwork around the mirror displays ten scenes from the life of Christ. The one candle in the chandelier symbolizes, among other things, God's all-seeing eye. At the top of the tall chair back, a little to the left of Jeanne's face, is a carved image of Saint Margaret, the patron saint of mothers. The fruit near the window possibly stand for fertility. Jeanne places her hand upon her belly, another reference to fertility. The dog at the pair's feet serves as a traditional symbol of fidelity.