I picked van Eyck painting to analyze, The Betrothal of the Arnolfini. The author of the article suggests that van Eyck originated a new form of art, where the artist becomes the ideal eye-witness. The author describes the painting as a form of portrait due to it having much realistic things. After I analyzed the painting, I agree with the author that it looks like a portrait. The author describes the painting as “A simple corner of the real world had suddenly been fixed on to a panel as if by magic.” The artist did well to produce a painting that looks realistic. It was done on Oil on wood surface. The artist decision to use carpet, slippers, wall rosary, little brush beside the bed, and etc… help the audience get a feeling of van Eyck home. It creates a realistic outlook. The pictures used in the painting represent life events. It seems like there is a serious union between the female and male in the painting because they are joining hands. In the mirror the man and women are reflected. The artist and another man (witness) are also reflected as being resent in the room. The use of lines in the painting is balance between the man and women. The woman is emphasized more with the use of light color dress. Everything is organized in the room. As I analyze the painting, my eyes are directed toward the man and women hand unity. The presence of a dog, slippers, window blinds, furniture, and etc.. are examples of objects the author to display realism. The color, technique, and structure of the painting reveal a lot about society and the painter’s intention in painting such art. These techniques are similar to the ones we described in class.
http://www.artchive.com/artchive/V/van_eyck/arnlfini.jpg.html
http://www.artchive.com/artchive/V/van_eyck/arnlfini_text.jpg.html
