What you are looking at
A merchant and a woman in a green gown stand hand in hand in a well-furnished room. Behind them a small convex mirror reflects the whole room, including two more figures standing in the doorway.
Why it is famous
It is usually identified as Giovanni di Nicolao Arnolfini, an Italian merchant in Bruges, and his wife. Above the mirror Van Eyck wrote in Latin that he was here, with the date 1434, as if signing as a witness. Its detail and oil technique were astonishing for the time.
How big is The Arnolfini Portrait?
The Arnolfini Portrait measures 82.2 × 60 cm (32.4 × 23.6 in), without its frame. It is roughly the same size as the Mona Lisa.
Compare it with other paintings
Where to see it
The National Gallery in London has owned it since 1842. Bring your phone's zoom or binoculars for the mirror.
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Also at The National Gallery
SunflowersVincent van Gogh, 1888 LondonFrequently asked questions
Who painted The Arnolfini Portrait?
Jan van Eyck painted The Arnolfini Portrait in 1434.
Where is The Arnolfini Portrait?
The Arnolfini Portrait is in The National Gallery, London, United Kingdom.
How big is The Arnolfini Portrait?
82.2 × 60 cm (32.4 × 23.6 in). It is roughly the same size as the Mona Lisa.
What is The Arnolfini Portrait made with?
Oil on oak panel.
Sources: Wikidata Q220859; Wikipedia, "The Arnolfini Portrait". Checked October 17, 2026. How we check.