The painting The Arnolfini Wedding probably resembles a wedding or an agreement of marriage of some sort. In the 15th century, Jan van Eyck ingeniously incorporates many everyday items that symbolize a marriage ceremony. Each item is placed naturally and has a meaning that adds to the idea of what this marriage is.
In line with the mirror, in the center of the painting, The Arnolfini Wedding is the couple holding hands that represent the unity of the couple through marriage. The prayer beads are a gift from the groom and represent purity in the marriage. The couple has removed shoes in acknowledgment of the sanctity of the bedchamber, transforming it into a sacred place. Meanwhile, the marriage bed with its bright red curtains evokes the physical act of love which, according to Christian doctrine, is an essential part of the perfect union of man and wife. Through the window, a cherry tree is probably a symbol of love.
