The artwork, titled “Giovanni Arnolfini and His Wife Giovanna Cenami (The Arnolfini Marriage) (detail)” by Jan van Eyck, dates back to 1434 and is a quintessential example of the Northern Renaissance. Created using wood and tempera, it belongs to the genre of animal painting and is part of the series known as “The Arnolfini Marriage.” It is currently housed in the National Gallery, London, UK.
This particular detail of the artwork displays a domesticated dog, meticulously depicted with a pelt of short, fine fur, standing on a wooden floor. The rendering emphasizes the texture and natural sheen of the animal’s coat, exemplifying Jan van Eyck’s masterful attention to detail and profound skills in lifelike representation. The positioning of the dog within the greater context of the painting highlights the domestic tranquility and intimate aspects of the scene. The background, partially veiled by shadow, contrasts with the bright, verdant tones of an adjacent green garment that becomes subtly visible, indicating the human presence within the frame. The overall composition is a testament to van Eyck’s dexterity in integrating minute details into his narrative art.
