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Marriage a la Mode. Plate I: The Marriage Settlement, 1745. Creator: Hogarth, William (1697-1764)
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Marriage a la Mode. Plate I: The Marriage Settlement, 1745. Creator: Hogarth, William (1697-1764)
Marriage a la Mode. Plate I: The Marriage Settlement, 1745. Private Collection
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Media ID 36196181
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Abundance Affianced Affluence Betrothal Betrothed Bride Bridegroom Cornucopia Depts Engaged To Be Married English Painting Great Britain Groom Hogarth Jurist Luxuriancy Marriage A La Mode Marriage Contract Matrimony Money Notary Notarys Office Opulence Prosperity Riche Riches Richness Sinful Stinginess Wealth Wealthiness Wedding Wedlock William 1697 1764
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EDITORS COMMENTS
Marriage à la Mode: Plate I - The Marriage Settlement, 1745, is a captivating and intriguing masterpiece by the renowned English painter and satirist, William Hogarth. This copper engraving, part of the larger series "Marriage à la Mode," offers a vivid and allegorical portrayal of the complexities and contradictions inherent in the institution of matrimony during the 18th century. The scene unfolds in the notary's office, where a jurist, flanked by two assistants, presides over the marriage settlement between the affianced couple. The bride, dressed in elegant attire, sits demurely, her eyes downcast, while the groom, a man of opulence and wealth, leans back in his chair, seemingly disinterested in the proceedings. The abundance of fruits, vegetables, and other signs of prosperity in the background symbolize the expected rewards of a successful marriage. However, the allegorical undertones of the image reveal a more sinister side to the scene. The groom's stinginess is emphasized by the empty cornucopia at his feet, a symbol of abundance that remains unfulfilled. The bride's dowry, represented by the large chest at her side, is being weighed and measured by the notary, highlighting the financial nature of the marriage contract. The mythological figure of Fortune, depicted as a blindfolded woman, holds a pair of scales, symbolizing the uncertain nature of wealth and prosperity. This satirical work by Hogarth offers a nuanced commentary on the complexities of marriage and the role of wealth and prosperity in the institution. The image invites viewers to reflect on the contradictions and challenges of matrimony, as well as the societal expectations and pressures that shaped the experiences of engaged couples during the 18th century.
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