4.9/5
The Living Room of Nicolao Arnolfini in 1434
Jan van Eyck places us inside a quiet bedroom in Bruges. [1] A man and a woman stand hand-in-hand. [1] A small dog at their feet acts as a symbol of loyalty. [2] Jan van Eyck was a pioneer in the medium of oil on oak, and this piece dates to 1434. [3] Natural light from a window on the left illuminates forest green and scarlet fabrics. Oranges rest on a chest, and a brass chandelier hangs above.
The Mirror, the Inscription, and the Secrets of Jan van Eyck
On the back wall, you will see a small convex mirror. This curved surface reflects the backs of the couple and two people standing in the doorway. [1] One of those figures is likely Jan van Eyck himself. [1] Just above it, he painted a witty signature resembling modern graffiti. [4] The elegant Latin words state that Jan van Eyck was here in 1434. [1]
Every object holds meaning in this classic painting of the Northern Renaissance. The single candle represents the all-seeing eye of God. [5] The broom symbolizes domestic order. [2] The woman's rounded shape is actually contemporary fashion. [1] She is simply holding up her heavy wool skirts. [1] Jan van Eyck used multiple thin, translucent glaze layers to create deep color intensity. [1] Glazes are thin, see-through coats of paint.
See more Jan van Eyck reproductions to explore his genius. He excelled at portraits, including his Portrait of Giovanni Arnolfini and Portrait of Margaret van Eyck. This piece remains one of the most highly regarded masterpiece paintings in the world.
Selecting Your Arnolfini Portrait Reproduction
Our artists recreate this masterpiece using oil on museum-grade linen canvas. We paint every detail brushstroke-by-brushstroke to capture the original textures. You can order your own arnolfini portrait reproduction starting at $350. We offer seven sizes. If you want the original proportions, you can order a canvas in any size. Classic and modern frames are also available to complete your new piece.
