Debates about Jan Van Eyck's portrait of the Arnolfini couple reside in the complex meanings of symbols that likely would have been understood by most15th century viewers in the Netherlands. Review the MyArtsLab and textbook discussions of this painting first, and then present your interpretation of the painting and its elements. (If any values or attitudes of that time strike you as surprising, interesting or different than your own, you may comment on that too.)
The photographic quality of Jan Van Eyck's work has been both praised and criticized. Describe your impression of this precise painting style in comparison to another Renaissance artist of your choice.
Tip: Be sure to read the earlier posts before you contribute. This painting tempts us to think according to our standards. It also offers the opportunity to understand the very different way another culture may have used art. (Spoiler Alert: She is not Pregnant. --So then, how to understand this painting?)