Allegorie op het huwelijk 17th century

This is an allegorical print on marriage, made by an anonymous artist. The print, encircled by a wreath, shows a man and a woman clasping hands, united under divine light. Consider the context of marriage during the time this print was made. Marriage was less about individual desire and more about social and economic alliances. The print’s inscription, “What God has joined together, let no man put asunder,” reflects the religious and societal insistence on the permanence of marriage, which particularly impacted women, who had limited legal and economic recourse if a marriage failed. The couple's formal attire speaks to the public nature of marriage, while their clasped hands signify agreement and unity. This image idealizes marriage as a divine institution, but it is crucial to remember the lived experiences of individuals within these unions and the power dynamics at play. Though small, this print reflects the weighty expectations placed on marriage and the individuals within it.