Shreya Alagramam from Artezaar.com

Throughout history, marriage has been among the most popular subjects portrayed in art. From ancient Egyptian tomb paintings to contemporary pieces, artists have captured the beauty and complexity of marriage in their works. These paintings provide a glimpse into the lives of married couples throughout history and occasionally offer insights into the cultural and social norms of the time. Some of these famous artworks depict wedding ceremonies or festivities, while others show love and connection between partners. In this article, we will explore some of the most famous paintings about marriage and love.

The Arnolfini Portrait" by Jan van Eyck

The Arnolfini Portrait, painted by Jan van Eyck in the 15th century, is a masterpiece filled with hidden meanings and symbols that reflect the social and cultural norms of the time. The painting depicts the wedding of Giovanni di Nicolao Arnolfini and his wife. It is notable for its intricate detail and use of light and shadow. The painting celebrates the institution of marriage as well as the wealth of the merchant class which was on the rise during the Renaissance period. The fine details in the painting, such as the couple's clothing and the various objects in the room, symbolize the social status and importance of the couple.

Another important symbol in the painting is the convex mirror, which hangs on the back wall and reflects the couple and two other figures in the room. The mirror has been the subject of much debate among scholars, with some arguing that it represents a divine presence, while others argue that it serves as a reflection of the painter's technique. However, many others believe that the mirror symbolizes the wealth and status of the couple, as mirrors were expensive and rare objects at the time. Overall, the symbols in the Arnolfini Portrait provide a fascinating glimpse into the beliefs and values of 15th-century European society and serve as a testament to the enduring power and beauty of art.

La Mariée" by Marc Chagall

La Mariée is a painting created by Marc Chagall, a renowned 20th-century artist. The painting was completed in 1950 and depicts a young bride in an almost dreamlike fantasy setting. The bride is wearing a white veil and a bright red dress. The contrast between the bride’s bright-coloured dress and the gloomy background reflects the nature of marriage itself since marriage is filled with both ups and downs.

The background is full of fantasy elements including a goat playing the cello and a fish leaping in the air. This is typical of Chagall’s unique style where he blends the real and the imaginary in his art. Many experts interpret this piece as the artist presenting the bride to the viewer. All of these elements come together to create a painting that is at once personal and universal, reflecting the human experience of love and marriage in a way that transcends historical boundaries.

The significance of La Mariée extends beyond its artistic and cultural value. For many, the painting is a powerful symbol of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. Chagall created the painting in the aftermath of World War II, a period of great upheaval and destruction in Europe and beyond. In this context, La Mariée can be seen as a celebration of life and love in the face of darkness and despair.

Marriage a la Mode" by William Hogarth

Marriage a la Mode is a series of six paintings created by William Hogarth in the early 18th century. The paintings depict the disastrous marriage between the son of a wealthy aristocrat and the daughter of a wealthy merchant. The series serves as a social commentary on the excesses and moral decay of the upper classes in Georgian England. Through the use of satire, Hogarth highlights the importance of compatibility and mutual respect in a successful marriage. The paintings are filled with symbolism and hidden meanings that reflect the nature of society at the time, including the importance of social class and the role of women in society.

In the first painting, "The Marriage Settlement," the father of the bride and the father of the groom are shown haggling over the terms of the marriage settlement. The bride and groom themselves are seen completely ignoring each other. This painting highlights the transactional nature of marriage during this time and the importance of wealth and social class in determining a suitable marriage partner. As the series progresses, the relationship between the couple deteriorates, with infidelity, deceit, and betrayal. The paintings serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of ignoring the importance of love and respect in a successful marriage.