Love and marriage 

Alfred Stevens, a Belgian painter trained in Paris, created "Love and Marriage" in the late 19th century, though the exact date remains unknown. The painting invites us to consider the complex interplay of societal expectations and personal experiences which shape our understanding of matrimony. The central figure, adorned in bridal attire, stands as an emblem of idealized femininity. The symbolism is rich with a winged cherub, doves, and flowering branches, evoking themes of innocence, purity, and renewal. Yet, the composition subtly hints at the constraints imposed upon women within the institution of marriage during the Victorian era. The bride is placed in an ethereal, almost dreamlike setting, which reflects the romanticized, yet often unrealistic expectations placed on women. The painting offers a poignant reflection on the emotional and societal pressures women faced as they navigated the path of love and marriage.