Van Eyck and Analyzing Art in the Northern Renaissance

 The Jan Van Eyck's portrait present visual images and different interpreters of these images have presented different views with the aim of creating the meaning of the work.  However, to understand the work, interpreters need to have an accurate identification of the figures.  In this case, I agree with Sayre's interpretation of the painting since he does not use formal analysis in interpreting the portrait but he analyses the subject matter and in specific, the symbolic elements.  I agree that the painting is representing a betrothal or engagement (Seidel, 1995).  Two important symbolic elements support the persuasive part of this interpretation.  The first symbolic element is that the man and the woman are linking their right and left hands and this symbolized an agreement to wed. The second symbolic element is a text written on the wall that ‘Jan van Eyck was here’ (Seidel, 1995). This means that there is a legal witness (the painter) to the event.  Other important features that support the interpretation is that the woman lifts her green dress using the left hand to signify the female beauty, the white color signify wholesomeness and the red curtains are symbols of love. The dog near the couple's feet signifies faithfulness as well as marital fidelity (Seidel, 1995).

 Assuming that people will interpret my portrait, I would include symbolic elements which would assist them to gain knowledge and make meaning beyond the picture on the surface.  Example of symbolic elements that I could employ are; light- to symbolize a positive mind and focus on reality. Blue, red and purple color to signify confidence, power, and royalty respectively.  Day and sun to signify opportunities, knowledge and new life. A golden gown-to indicate the change of identity or to change the behaviors to achieve goals.

 

Reference

 

Seidel, L. (1995). Jan van eyck's arnolfini portrait. Cambridge: Cambridge Univ Press.