The Arnolfini Portrait by Jan Van Eyck: Great Art Explained

The video explores the Arnolfini Portrait by Jan van Eyck, a masterpiece that has intrigued art historians for centuries. It delves into the rise of the merchant class in the 15th century and how this new wealth influenced art and social status. The portrait is analyzed for its rich symbolism, fashion, and interior elements, reflecting the Arnolfini couple's wealth and societal position. Van Eyck's innovative techniques and the painting's potential meanings, including a memorial to Costanza, are discussed, highlighting the transition from medieval to Renaissance art.

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