Portrait of a Couple, c. 1580-1588. Creator: Unknown

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Portrait of a Couple, c. 1580-1588. Creator: Unknown

Portrait of a Couple, c. 1580-1588. While the attribution remains hotly debated, this work exemplifies how Italian portraiture of the 1500s could articulate family alliances through marriage. The inscription gives the sitters ages as 32 and 28, and their elaborate jewelry, weapons, and garments, made of expensive materials, convey their elite status. The marten skin attached to the womans waist-its head decorated with gems-symbolized propriety. These expressions of wealth convey achievements and position rather than accurate personalities, and the figures, though lifelike, stand in awkward relationship to each other, their interaction one of alliance not love

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Media ID 19623924

© Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Late 16th Century Northern Italy

FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS

> Arts > Still life artwork > Oil paintings > Portrait paintings

> Europe > United Kingdom > England > Cleveland

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a remarkable piece of art from the late 16th century, titled "Portrait of a Couple, c. 1580-1588". Created by an unknown artist, this portrait exemplifies the ability of Italian portraiture during the 1500s to convey family alliances through marriage. The debate surrounding its attribution adds intrigue to this masterpiece. The inscription reveals that the couple depicted in the painting were aged 32 and 28 at the time. Their opulent jewelry, weapons, and garments crafted from expensive materials serve as symbols of their elite status within society. One fascinating detail is the marten skin attached to the woman's waist, adorned with precious gems. This peculiar accessory was believed to represent propriety during that era. It is worth noting that these displays of wealth primarily communicate achievements and social standing rather than capturing accurate depictions of their personalities. While lifelike in appearance, there exists an undeniable sense of awkwardness between these two figures. Their interaction seems more aligned with alliance rather than love or affection for one another. Preserved on canvas using oil paints, this extraordinary artwork can be found at The Cleveland Museum of Art. Its origin lies in Northern Italy—a testament to both its historical significance and artistic prowess. This print provided by Heritage Art/Heritage Images offers viewers a glimpse into a fascinating period where art served as a medium for expressing societal connections and aspirations beyond mere visual representation.

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