Harmony Before Matrimony c. 1805

James Gillray created this print called, Harmony Before Matrimony. Here we see an interior where a couple makes music together; the man sings from a book, while the woman plays the harp. The symbolism of musical harmony dates back to antiquity. It evokes cosmic order and the harmony of the spheres. But here, the harmony appears strained. The woman's posture suggests boredom or discomfort. Even the cats seem to be fighting amidst scattered sheet music. Note the painting on the wall depicting Cupid, the god of love, suggesting that love should be part of this union. The presence of Cupid is interesting because we see this motif, or similar gods of love like Eros, throughout art history - consider Botticelli’s Venus and Mars, where Cupid figures are also present, though there, love plays a triumphant role. This print highlights a dissonance between outward appearances and inner feelings, offering a glimpse into the complex dynamics of courtship and marriage. The notion of harmony, so central to human understanding and culture, is subverted to reveal underlying tensions.