JAN VAN EYCK

(1390-1441)

Characteristics

Portrayed direct and distributed light and texture

Created subordinate areas of focus

Realness and unity Sheer artistry, inscription

in his work simulate carved and applied lettering.

Meticulously accurate Round figuresJan Van Eyck, Portrait of

a Man, 1433. Oil on Panel.

Jan Van Eyck, The Arnolfini Wedding Portrait, 1434. Oil on Panel.

Marriage contract between Giovanni di Nicolao Arnolfini and possibly his wife,

Presumably in their home in the Flemish city of Bruges

A pictorial prayer for fertility and children

Allegory

Dog: fidelity in marriage Hands held with palms

upwards: fidelity in marriage Candle: God Orange: innocence that exists

in the beginning of a marriage

Reflection : death of Christ and prayers to Virgin Mary

Mirror: all knowing God and passion of Christ Shoes removed : sanctity of marriage

Symbols

The chandelier: one candle lit which represents matrimony and the unity of marriage

Style of shoes: high status Their hands: raised as

though taking an oath Dog: wealth and high status Oranges on the

windowsill: indicates wealth

Convex mirror: neutralism; it’s there so the whole room can be seen, and to show that there was a witness to the wedding.

The crystal prayer beads on the wall & the image of Saint Margaret: suggest strong belief in religion

Words above mirror mean “Jan Van Eyck was here.”

Ghent Altarpiece (1432)

Lucca Madonna (1436)Just Judges (1432)

Portrait of Cardinal Niccolo Albergati (1432)