Question

Imagine you are designing a portrait of Giovanni Arnolfini today. Give at least 5 examples of objects that would be common place in a modern home that would have symbolism similar to the original. Write a description of what symbols might be included and why?

Answer 1

Answer:

1) a cradle, representing the fertility of the wife, when the painter (Jan Van Eyck) represents her with a lump in the belly simulating a pregnancy.

2) A chihuahua, representing fidelity and love as well as a high social status like the dog (Brussels Griffon) that Van Eyck painted.

3) A pair of Louboutin shoes, representing the latest fashion among rich women.

4) A plate with seafood, again representing the high status of the family that wanted to interpret the oranges and cherry of the original painting

5) A window at the back of the room that reflects the scene in the glass. This wants to represent what "hides" behind the painter's vision.

Explanation: