The art discourse community:
- a socio-rhetorical group of people who share common goals directly related to art; certain mechanisms of communication (e.g., art magazines); specific vocabulary, grammar, semantics, rhetoric; specific GENRES
- genre: type of texts that share the same communicative purpose
The Critical Essay = a genre whose communicative purpose is to offer a personal opinion on a specific subject. Therefore we can consider it subjective writing. Nonetheless, subjective does not mean total lack of evidence for what we claim.
The Formal Analysis
- a type of critical essay
- to analyse = to take a thing apart; to decompose it in order to see what its components are and how they work together as a whole => to analyse a work of art = to deconstruct it into smaller elements such as : subject-matter; formal elements; principles of design; style; purpose, etc.
- purpose: to describe, interpret and/or evaluate a work of art, that is, to analyse a work of art
- prerequisite: direct access to the real work or to a good reproduction
- each such important element is then analysed in order to see what role it plays in the whole
- the standard move-structure of a text belonging to the subgenre of formal analysis:
MOVE I: Introducing the work and the artist
MOVE II: Transition:
- usually offers a personal first response to the work
MOVE III: Analysing de-constructed elements:
MOVE IV: Concluding:
- offering a final interpretation +/- evaluation of the whole work, based on the previous analyses
TASKS:
- study the texts:
1. The Marriage of Giovanni Arnolfini and Jeanne Cenami by Jan van Eyck, written by Erwin Panofsky
The text you are supposed to read is really Panofsky's text (which can be found in the book Anda-Elena Cretiu: Discourse and Communication in Visual Arts, Casa Cartii de Stiinta, 2014, or in
Genre-Structured Discourse in Art Texts, Presa Univ. Clujeana, 2003) (in our library). The links below are only commentaries on the text and may help you better understand it.
Erwin Panofsky and his interpretation of art woks
another version of the text
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arnolfini_Portrait
2. Ten Lizes by Andy Warhol by Anca Teodora Pora
- comment on the analyses made by the authors, that is, on the descriptions and interpretations and/or evaluations offered; did they convince you?; c
- a socio-rhetorical group of people who share common goals directly related to art; certain mechanisms of communication (e.g., art magazines); specific vocabulary, grammar, semantics, rhetoric; specific GENRES
- genre: type of texts that share the same communicative purpose
The Critical Essay = a genre whose communicative purpose is to offer a personal opinion on a specific subject. Therefore we can consider it subjective writing. Nonetheless, subjective does not mean total lack of evidence for what we claim.
The Formal Analysis
- a type of critical essay
- to analyse = to take a thing apart; to decompose it in order to see what its components are and how they work together as a whole => to analyse a work of art = to deconstruct it into smaller elements such as : subject-matter; formal elements; principles of design; style; purpose, etc.
- purpose: to describe, interpret and/or evaluate a work of art, that is, to analyse a work of art
- prerequisite: direct access to the real work or to a good reproduction
- each such important element is then analysed in order to see what role it plays in the whole
- the standard move-structure of a text belonging to the subgenre of formal analysis:
MOVE I: Introducing the work and the artist
- step 1: identifying the work (some details about the title, author, theme, subject-matter, medium, dimensions, period of creation, current location, purposes of creation)
- step 2: identifying the artist: only that biographical information considered relevant for the work analysed
MOVE II: Transition:
- usually offers a personal first response to the work
MOVE III: Analysing de-constructed elements:
- step 1: analysing first element : describing the first element + interpreting the first element + /- evaluating the first element (e.g. a character in the work)
- step 2: analysing element 2 (e.g. the principle of the perfect symmetry)
- step 3: analysing element 3 (e.g. the dominating colour)
MOVE IV: Concluding:
- offering a final interpretation +/- evaluation of the whole work, based on the previous analyses
TASKS:
- study the texts:
1. The Marriage of Giovanni Arnolfini and Jeanne Cenami by Jan van Eyck, written by Erwin Panofsky
The text you are supposed to read is really Panofsky's text (which can be found in the book Anda-Elena Cretiu: Discourse and Communication in Visual Arts, Casa Cartii de Stiinta, 2014, or in
Erwin Panofsky and his interpretation of art woks
another version of the text
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arnolfini_Portrait
2. Ten Lizes by Andy Warhol by Anca Teodora Pora
- comment on the analyses made by the authors, that is, on the descriptions and interpretations and/or evaluations offered; did they convince you?; c
an you find other possible interpretations to those elements?; are there other elements you would have chosen instead? Which? Why?
3. Access the video material below. What elements are analyzed? Although no interpretations are assigned to the formal elements analyzed here, can you think of 2-3 partial interpretations and an on-the-whole one?
DEADLINE: November 10
Dracea Luca-Vlad
ReplyDeleteAnul 2
Foto-Video
1. “The Arnolfini Marriage” – Erwin Panofsky
Panofsky’s interpretation:
Panofsky sees the painting as a symbolic representation of a marriage, with details loaded with meanings: the hand gesture, the shoes taken off, the dog (fidelity), the lit candle (the presence of the divinity), the mirror (witness), the artist’s signature – all signs would support the idea of an official nuptial act.
Criticisms of the interpretation:
Documents were later discovered showing that the Arnolfini couple married after van Eyck’s death.
Some symbols may have simpler explanations (the shoes taken off = a domestic gesture, not a religious one).
The painting may also be a prestigious portrait, not necessarily a wedding.
My point of view:
Panofsky convinces through rigor, but sometimes exaggerates the symbolism. An alternative interpretation may be that the painting reflects social status or even an engagement, not an actual marriage.
2. “Ten Lizas” – Andy Warhol, commentary based on the text by A. T. Pora
Author’s analysis:
Pora interprets the work as a critique of celebrity culture and mass reproduction – Liz Taylor’s image becomes a commodity. Repetition suggests the emptiness of meaning, and the brilliant aesthetics mask the fragility of identity.
Partially – it is a plausible interpretation, but not the only one. Warhol is ambiguous: he can criticize, but also glorify celebrities.
Other possible interpretations:
A form of visual memorial – the preservation of a cultural icon.
A reflection on fragmented identity in the media age
3. The video
Elements analyzed:
Composition, light, color, texture, line – no direct interpretations.
2–3 possible interpretations:
The contrast of light can suggest the tension between appearance and essence.
The formal repetition can indicate the visual monotony of the modern era.
A possible general interpretation: the work expresses how the image becomes central in our perception of reality.
1.According to Panofsky, Jan van Eyck’s Arnolfini Portrait is a visual document of a marriage ceremony. Every element in the scene carries symbolic weight: the joined hands represent union, the discarded shoes suggest a sacred space, the dog stands for loyalty, the single candle marks divine presence, and the convex mirror serves as a witness to the act. Even the artist’s signature reinforces the idea of an official event being recorded.Later research revealed that the Arnolfini couple actually married after van Eyck’s death, which challenges Panofsky’s theory. Many of the supposed “symbols” might simply reflect daily life like taking off shoes indoors as a common custom. Some scholars now believe the painting could instead be a formal double portrait meant to highlight wealth and respectability rather than document a wedding.
ReplyDeleteMy point of view,while Panofsky’s reading is impressive in its depth and logic, it sometimes feels overly symbolic. I see the painting as more of a social statement than a religious or legal one—perhaps celebrating engagement, prosperity, or domestic virtue rather than a literal marriage. The meticulous detail and luxurious setting seem to emphasize status and identity as much as personal union.
2.Anca Teodora Pora’s analysis of Andy Warhol’s Ten Lizes does a great job of explaining how Warhol used repetition and screen-printing to show how fame can turn a person into a product. I found her points convincing, especially her idea that the repeated images of Elizabeth Taylor reflect how the media strips away individuality. Still, I think there’s more that could be said. For example, the faded, uneven look of the prints might also suggest something deeper—like the fragility of fame or the loneliness behind celebrity life. I’d also focus more on Warhol’s use of color and texture, since the contrast between sharp and blurry areas adds emotional depth to the piece. Overall, Pora’s interpretation is strong, but adding these details could make the analysis even richer and more personal.
3.Elements examined,composition, lighting, color, texture, and line are analyzed, though no explicit interpretations are provided.The interplay of light and shadow might reflect the tension between surface appearance and underlying reality.
The repeated visual motifs could suggest the monotony or uniformity of contemporary life.A possible overall interpretation:
The work can be seen as highlighting how images dominate and shape the way we perceive the world.
Daroczi Dalma- Grafica anul II licenta
ReplyDelete1. "The marriage of of Giovanni Arnolfini and Jeanne Cenami" by Jan van Eyck, analyzed by Erwin Panofsky
Erwin Panofsky was an art historian who described the "Arnolfini portrait" by Jean van Eyck as a statement of marriage and commitment. His analysis was highly symbolic, he found a deeper meaning to almost every item in the painting. Erwin Panofsky said that the dog symbolizes fidelity, while the gentle holding of hands means tenderness and love, act that paints this marriage as a sacred oath. The mirror stands as witness to this oath, while the single lit candle represents the presence of a divine force. There are also small medallions set into the frame of the mirror, they represent God's salvation towards those seen in the mirror. Also, we can see Jean van Eyck's signature on the wall above the mirror, this way the artist attests his presence at this event as a witness. Although Panofsky sees symbolism in everything, many people argue that the painting has a much simpler meaning than his. Many say that it is a simple painting that shows the wealth of a family, because a lot of emphasis is put on the clothes and the room decor, obviously stating that the Arnolfini's are of noble origin.
2. "Ten Lizes" by Andy Warhol, analyzed by Anca Teodora Pora
I think that Anca Teodora Pora analyzed Warhol's work thoroughly, she dove into the societal problems the artist tried to explain. Andy Warhol is famous for reflecting upon society's need for consumption and through this work, he illustrated that the people need quantity over quality, the quality of the portrait deteriorating each time it's printed. He used the silkscreen printing method, a mass production technique, only accentuating the woman's main features like hair, nose, eyes, eyebrows and lips. Elisabeth Taylor, was an actress, she was a icon and a close friend of Andy. Through this series he strips her soul from the prints, only leaving behind the main points by which she can be identified, fact that represents how people would buy something mass produced just for the sake of it even if it's lacking the spirit. Also, the size of the prints is massive, it plays into the impact of the message, it's calling the viewer to look into the details, to see how the quality is deteriorating with each print. I consider that Anca Teodora Pora did an amazing job analyzing this artwork, she did a meticulous job explaining the meaning of it.
3. Elements analyzed: scale, composition, line,colour,light and materials
partial interpretation: the light is soft and warm, suggesting serenity and grace
the pyramidal composition suggests order and safety, the way Madonna cradles the baby is very intimate and safe, a feeling only a mother can give
on the whole interpretation:
Bellini's "Madonna of the Meadow" is very different: in this quietly composed, luminously coloured landscape space, the sacred and natural are set side by side in harmony. The restrained modeling and geometrical balance result in a spiritual calm instead of dramatic emotion. Therefore, the painting embodies the ideal of the Renaissance which is divine presence in the form of natural beauty. It's a moment of peaceful meditation on motherhood, nature, divinity and grace.
In the video below, the authors analyze a work by Giovanni Belilini, more precisely "The Madonna of the Meadow". They analyze what they see, namely scale, composition, pictorial space, shape, line, color, light, tone, texture.
ReplyDeleteIf we refer to the scale, this work is of medium size, because we do not have to step back to see the entire work and we do not have to get very close to see the details.
If we refer to the composition, the character in the center of the image is smaller than life size and occupies a third of the frame. The character, Virgin Mary, is located in the center of the image and together with the drapery of the clothing forms a pyramidal structure with a large base downwards. The child who is on her lap is in the same pyramidal shape showing the intimate connection with his mother. The fact that the female character rises above the horizon line and is close to the viewer shows us that he is the main character in the work. But the landscape around her, which takes up quite a bit of space, seems to frame the main character. Around the character the author draws horizontal bands by rendering grass, pebbles, a plowed field and even clouds. On one side the character is framed by the vertical lines of the trees and on the other side by the lines of the buildings. Another way to consider the composition is the way the author tilts Mary's head, which has the same inclination as Christ's head. The Virgin Mary's hands, which have their fingers joined together to form a rounded shape between them, which has about the same volume as Christ's head and her own head. The diagonal formed by her right shoulder has the same inclination as the diagonal of her forearm and the diagonal of the inclination of the child's body in her lap.
Regarding pictorial space, we can say that the author used aerial perspective and linear perspective to render the impression of spatiality and the illusion of three dimensions, by placing objects in front of each other, by rendering in vivid or less vivid colors the objects that are further from the viewer, by rendering in color the different intensities of the blue of the sky to render the distance.
Scale, composition, color, tone, light, form, space, line, texture and pattern are tools used to lock close to a peace of art, to explore and better understand it.
1
ReplyDeleteThe Arnolfiny Portrait is an oil painting, painted by Jan van Eyck that by the first glance is meant to illustrate two people, possibly a married couple.Its Iconography is very complex, the painting having many objects with different meaning that are interpreted and debated in various forms. Some examples that suggest the possibility of mariage is the placement of the figures and the woman's headdress that was used in conventional wedding rules of that period.There are people that consider the couple aren't married and the portrait can represent something else. Another symbol that is interpreted in different ways is the woman that appears to be pregnant but there are speculations that suggest that is an illusion created by the dress that was a fashion trend at that time.
Considering this the work art is somewhat free to interpretation many people and scholars having different perspectives on the symbolism.
2
A.T.Pora believes that "Ten Lizes" by Andy Warhol is one of the most representative works due to its unique art style that is meant to illustrate image and essence only, the celebrity is represented almost not having a soul and so the artist intention is to detach the person from the work.
Other similar way I personally interpret this technique is by the author's intention of transforming the celebrity into a repetitive element and so again detaching the person from the art work.
3
The video presents the art piece "Madonna of the Meadow by Giovanni Bellini and it illustrates the Virgin Mary and the Christ child.
One symbol that I interpreted was at first glance the animals that are placed behind that carry religious symbols representing possibly the fight between good and evil and that are also a reflection of Christ future.
The second aspect that can be considered a symbol is the color and the light that is meant to suggest hope and renewel.
Task 1:
ReplyDelete1. Erwin Panofsky – The Marriage of Giovanni Arnolfini and Jeanne Cenami
Panofsky’s analysis is convincing because it follows a clear and structured formal, iconographic, and iconological method. His descriptions are precise and focused, identifying key elements such as the figures’ gestures, the mirror, the candle, the dog, and the bedroom setting before interpreting them. This careful progression makes his argument easy to follow and well supported.
What strengthens his interpretation is the meticulous analysis he has over almost all visual details, connecting them to external sources like canon law, Christian symbolism, and historical marriage practices. The raised hand and joined hands are convincingly explained as part of a marital oath, while the candle is interpreted as a sign of Christ’s presence. The mirror and the artist’s signature are also read as evidence of Van Eyck acting as a witness, supporting the idea that the painting functions as both a portrait and a form of marriage document.
Panofsky’s analysis is persuasive because it is based on historical references and established symbolic traditions rather than speculation. Although other interpretations are possible, such as reading the painting mainly as a display of social status, the consistent presence of marriage symbolism makes his interpretation stronger.
One additional element that could be explored is the use of space and light to reinforce intimacy, but this would only complement his initial reading. Overall, the analysis clearly shows how meaning emerges through the interaction of form, symbolism, and cultural context.
2. Anca Teodora Pora – Ten Lizes by Andy Warhol
The analysis of Ten Lizes is also convincing, though it works differently from Panofsky’s. It focuses mainly on formal elements such as repetition, scale, and color, which suits a Pop Art work where traditional iconography is less fixed. The interpretation of repetition as a reference to mass production and industrial processes aligns well with Warhol’s artistic approach.
The idea that repetition both empties the image of emotional depth and gives it a kind of permanence is especially effective. It reflects Warhol’s treatment of celebrities as consumable image, in correlation with social consumerism. The discussion of scale is also relevant, as the large size of the work forces the viewer to confront the image directly, reinforcing a sense of visual saturation.
The analysis clearly explains how Warhol separates Elisabeth Taylor’s public image from her personal identity. The use of silver and black tones, flattened facial features, and the mechanical silkscreen technique support the idea that the figure becomes an icon rather than an individual. While the variations between prints are described as accidental, they could also be seen as highlighting the tension between repetition and individuality. Still, the interpretation remains coherent and convincing.
Another potential angle of examination could be how the viewer’s response changes over time, since Warhol’s repeated images often create a delayed emotional response rather than an immediate one, but the selected elements already support the main argument well.
Overall, both analyses are convincing in their own contexts. Panofsky’s stands out for its depth and historical grounding, while the Warhol analysis is clear, relevant, and suited to contemporary art. Together, they show that formal analysis must adapt depending on the type of artwork being studied.
Task 2:
ReplyDeleteElements Analyzed in the Visual Formal Analysis
In the video, the analysis focuses strictly on formal elements and principles of design, without assigning symbolic or iconographic meanings. The elements analyzed include:
- Scale (the medium size of the painting and how large the figures appear)
- Composition (the pyramid shape created by the Madonna and Child and the horizontal layers of the landscape)
- Pictorial space (overlapping forms, atmospheric perspective, and some linear perspective)
- Form (natural forms like trees and clouds, human figures, and buildings)
- Line (contours, diagonals, and repeated angles)
- Color (dominant blues, reds, and earth tones)
- Light and tone (a consistent light source and smooth transitions from light to shadow)
- Texture (smooth skin and fabric versus rough ground and soft foliage)
- Pattern (repetition in the drapery and in the grass and leaves)
Together, these elements help create a sense of depth, balance, and unity in the painting.
Partial Interpretations of Formal Elements
Even though the video avoids interpretation, some partial meanings can still be suggested:
1. Composition and scale: the pyramidal composition and the closeness of the figures to the foreground create a feeling of stability and calm. The figures feel important, but also intimate and approachable.
2. Color and light: the strong blue of the Virgin’s cloak connects visually with the sky and landscape. The soft, even lighting contributes to a peaceful and harmonious mood.
3. Pictorial space and form: the way space slowly recedes into the background encourages the viewer to look gently into the distance, reinforcing a sense of balance between the figures and their environment.
Overall Interpretation
Overall, the formal elements work together to create an image that feels calm, balanced, and unified. The careful use of composition, space, light, and color gives the scene a quiet, timeless quality. Even without symbolic interpretation, the visual structure alone communicates harmony, intimacy, and stability.
Cătuna Galeș Elena ilinca ITA 2
ReplyDelete1. Erwin Panofsky interprets The Marriage of Giovanni Arnolfini and Jeanne Cenami by Jan van Eyck as a visual representation of the sacrament of marriage rather than a simple portrait. The gestures of the couple, especially the joining of hands and the groom’s raised arm, are understood as signs of the marital oath according to canon law.
Panofsky argues that the single lit candle symbolizes the presence of Christ as a divine witness, while the intimate setting reflects the fact that marriage could be validly concluded without a priest. The artist’s signature, “Johannes de Eyck was here,” is interpreted as a legal attestation, presenting the painter as a witness to the event.
Other elements reinforce the symbolic meaning of the scene: the dog represents marital fidelity, the mirror with scenes from the Passion suggests salvation, and the bedroom setting emphasizes the sacred nature of the union. Through these details, Panofsky concludes that the painting unites the secular and the sacred, transforming a domestic interior into a symbolic image of marriage.
2. I think Anca Teodora Pora did a good job analyzing Warhol’s Ten Lizes. She explains how Warhol shows society’s focus on quantity over quality, because the portrait loses detail each time it is printed. Using silkscreen, he keeps only Taylor’s main features: eyes, nose, lips, and hair are turning her into an icon while removing her personality. The large size of the work makes the viewer notice small differences in the prints, showing the effect of mass production. I believe Pora’s analysis is clear and helps understand the meaning of the artwork.
3. Elements analyzed: scale, composition, line, color, light, and materials. Interpretation:
In Bellini’s Madonna of the Meadow, the harmonious composition and luminous colors create a serene and balanced atmosphere. The arrangement of forms, proportional geometry, and gentle light produce a sense of quiet spirituality rather than dramatic intensity. The painting reflects the Renaissance ideal of divine presence expressed through natural beauty, offering a contemplative vision of motherhood, nature, and grace.
Peterfi Maria-Sara
ReplyDeletemoda-design vestimentar
In The Marriage of Giovanni Arnolfini and Jeanne Cenami, Panofsky provides a meticulous formal analysis combined with iconographic interpretation. He examines elements such as the gestures of the figures, the placement of objects, and symbolic motifs (the dog, the mirror, the candle) to argue that the painting functions as both a matrimonial document and a complex allegorical scene. His interpretations are convincing because he supports them with evidence from both the visual details and historical context. However, alternative interpretations could emphasize psychological aspects, such as the expressions of the figures or the spatial tension in the room, rather than only the symbolic content.
In Ten Lizes, Pora focuses on Warhol’s repetition, color schemes, and the mass-media context to interpret the work as a critique of celebrity culture and consumerism. The description of the colors and composition is clear, but one could also analyze the subtle differences between the repeated images as a commentary on individual identity versus mass production. Another element worth examining might be the framing and cropping of each Liz, which affects how the viewer perceives fame and intimacy. Both analyses successfully combine description with interpretation, yet each could be extended by considering additional elements or alternative perspectives.
The Smarthistory video emphasizes formal elements such as composition, color, line, and scale. Even without explicit interpretations, these elements invite partial readings: the dominant color may convey emotional tone, the line and symmetry suggest order or tension, and scale can emphasize importance. On the whole, these formal choices create a structured, visually compelling experience that directs the viewer’s attention and shapes interpretation. By connecting these observations to broader themes—ritual, identity, or social commentary—one can develop a fuller understanding of the work beyond the formal elements alone.
Asztalos Győngyi - Szidonia / Foto-Video / anul 2
ReplyDelete1. The Arnolfini Portrait by Jan van Eyck (Erwin Panofsky)
Commentary on Panofsky’s Analysis: Panofsky’s 1934 essay is a cornerstone of iconology. He famously argues that the painting is not just a portrait but a legal document—a "pictorial marriage certificate." He interprets the objects through "disguised symbolism": the single candle signifies the all-seeing eye of God; the dog represents fides (fidelity); the discarded pattens (shoes) suggest the couple is on holy ground.
Other Interpretations: One could interpret the room as a display of mercantile wealth rather than a sacramental space. The oranges, the dyed green wool, and the brass chandelier are "status symbols" of the global trade in Bruges. The hand gesture might not be an oath but a "mandate"—a legal transfer of power from husband to wife to conduct business in his absence.
Alternative Elements: I would focus more on the convex mirror and the brush hanging on the bedpost. The mirror represents the "all-seeing" eye of the artist/witness, while the brush (often associated with St. Martha, patron of housewives) emphasizes the domestic duties and the "sanctification of the everyday."
2. Ten Lizes by Andy Warhol (Anca Teodora Pora)
Commentary on Pora’s Analysis: Pora analyzes Warhol through the lens of seriality and the "death of the aura." She likely focuses on how the repetition of Elizabeth Taylor’s face (from a publicity still for Butterfield 8) flattens the human being into a consumer product. The imperfections in the silkscreen—smudges and variations in ink—are interpreted as the "glitches" in the machinery of fame.
Other Interpretations: Rather than seeing the repetition as a "degradation" of the subject, it could be seen as a litany or a prayer. By repeating Liz ten times, Warhol creates a modern secular altarpiece. Another view is that it reflects the flicker of a film strip, reminding the viewer that Liz Taylor is a creature of the cinema, not a "real" person.
Alternative Elements: I would choose to analyze the silver/grey background (often used in the "Lizes"). Silver evokes the "Silver Screen" but also the coldness of a factory. It removes the subject from a natural environment and places her in a vacuum of "pure image."
3. Video Material Analysis (Formal Elements & Interpretations)
The video provided (Formal Elements of Art) breaks down the visual components of an artwork without assigning deep meaning.
Elements Analyzed:
Line and Shape: How boundaries define form.
Color and Value: The use of light, shadow, and hue to create mood or depth.
Texture and Space: The physical "feel" of the surface and the arrangement of objects within the frame.
Partial Interpretations:
Interpretation 1 (Color/Value): The high contrast between the dark clothes of the man and the bright green dress of the woman in the Arnolfini portrait suggests a division of spheres: the man belongs to the "outside" world (dark, sober, business), while the woman represents the "inner" world (vibrant, domestic, life-giving).
Interpretation 2 (Line/Repetition): In Ten Lizes, the rigid horizontal grid (the "space") creates a feeling of industrial entrapment. The lines are not organic; they are "mechanical," suggesting that the individual is trapped within the capitalist machine of image production.
Interpretation 3 (Texture): The meticulous "microscopic" texture in Van Eyck’s work (the fur, the dog’s hair) creates a hyper-reality, suggesting that the material world is so perfect it must have a divine origin.
Lovasz- Pager Andrea, Conservare si restaurare, anul 2
ReplyDelete1. Comment on Panofsky’s analysis of The Marriage of Giovanni Arnolfini and Jeanne Cenami
Erwin Panofsky’s analysis is a classic example of iconological interpretation. He goes beyond the literal description of the painting (subject-matter: a married couple in a domestic interior) and interprets symbolic elements such as the dog (fidelity), the single lit candle (divine presence), and the convex mirror (omniscience and witness). His method combines describing art (identifying and listing elements), analyzing art (explaining the function of each element), and interpreting art (deriving cultural and historical meaning).
Personally, I find Panofsky’s interpretation convincing because it links specific details to broader cultural and religious contexts of 15th-century Flanders. However, alternative interpretations are possible. For example, the positioning of the hands could emphasize social contract or property relations rather than merely marital affection. Additionally, elements like the ornate chandelier or the elaborate clothing could also be analyzed for status and wealth, highlighting economic power rather than purely symbolic meanings.
2. Comment on Anca Teodora Pora’s analysis of Ten Lizes by Andy Warhol
Pora’s analysis emphasizes repetition, color, and mass production, reflecting Warhol’s commentary on consumer culture and celebrity iconography. She describes the formal elements (color contrast, multiple images) and interprets them as a critique of media saturation and commodification. The evaluation is convincing, as it clearly links technique and form to conceptual content.
Alternative interpretations could focus on the individuality of each Liz image, despite the repetition, suggesting subtle differences in identity or perception in mass media culture. Another element I might emphasize is texture and surface finish, since the silkscreen technique itself communicates industrial reproduction versus handcrafted uniqueness.
3. The video
The video demonstrates how to perform a formal analysis of a work of art by focusing on key elements such as subject-matter, line and shape, color, light and shadow, composition, and space. Even without assigned interpretations, one can infer meaning from these elements: for example, bright contrasting colors may evoke emotion or draw attention to certain figures, symmetry in the composition can suggest order or harmony, and the direction of lines may guide the viewer’s eye and indicate relationships within the scene. Overall, these formal elements work together to communicate the artwork’s theme, structure, and the artist’s intended visual and conceptual message.
Rus Denisa Maria anul 3
ReplyDeleteConservare restaurare
Panofsky makes you see the painting as more than a portrait. The mirror, the dog, the hands: all of it can mean something deeper about marriage, wealth, and morality. I think he’s right, but some things feel open to interpretation too. The shoes, for example, could just show comfort at home, and the oranges might be about richness rather than fertility. I like that his method makes you notice small details that change how you understand the scene.
Pora explains how Warhol’s repetition of Liz Taylor turns her into a kind of icon. I see that, but I also feel the repeated images make it almost like a celebration, not just a critique. The colors, the slight differences between each face, and the grid layout make it visually interesting.
Warhol uses repetition and color to talk about celebrity, while Van Eyck uses detail and symbolism to tell a story about people and society.
Solomon Cristiana-Ioana
ReplyDeleteITA III
Panofsky’s analysis of The Arnolfini Portrait is one of if not the pillar of iconological interpretation in art history. From my point of view, the many elements he chooses to focus on, such as the single lit candle, the mirror or the dog, build a framework in which one can easily see how each detail contributes to the hidden story. The analysis is convincing, it demonstrates that meaning in art is structured, and that iconography can reveal cultural and historical conventions invisible to the modern viewer, however, the analysis can also be seen as highly speculative. While Panofsky’s interpretation is indeed compelling, it s possible that he over-read the symbolism. Like in the case of the single lit candle which he sees as a symbol of the presence of God sactifying the marriage, we know as viewers that it can also just be seen as a common everyday object. The other symbols that I mentioned may be overdetermined, and alternative readings are also possible such as the dog, who may symbolize fidelity, but it could also may simply function as a symbol of wealth or domestic life. The mirror might emphasize the painter’s interest in visual perception rather than serving as a legal or religious symbol. The list goes on, but in art history;s history of analysis, Panofsky undoubtedly holds a highly regarded place percisely for his keen eye and talent to unify the sacred and mundane.
The interpretation of Ten Lizes is convincing as well, even though it operates through a different analytical strategy than Panofsky’s. Rather than relying on symbolic meanings, it prioritizes repetition, monumentality, and color contrasts, all appropriate for a Pop Art context where imagery is already mediated by mass culture. The role of scale is convincingly addressed, since the large format makes the viewer to engage with the image at close range, enhancing the sensation of visual excess. Another thing that could be discussed is how seeing the same image many times can slowly change the viewer’s reaction, making it more distant or numb. However, the elements already discussed support the main idea well.
Overall, both analyses work well in different ways. Panofsky’s is more detailed and based on historical symbols, while the Warhol analysis is simpler and more focused on visual effects and modern culture. Together, in my opinion, they show that formal analysis should change depending on the type of artwork.
Lazar Alexandru Andrei
ReplyDeleteModa, anul 2 licenta
The formal analyses by Erwin Panofsky and Anca Teodora Pora illustrate different critical approaches within the genre of the critical essay. Panofsky’s interpretation of The Marriage of Giovanni Arnolfini and Jeanne Cenami is convincing due to its detailed analysis of symbolic elements such as the mirror, the candle, and the gestures of the figures, which he connects to marriage rituals and moral values. However, some of these elements could allow alternative interpretations, for example the mirror as a sign of artistic self-reflection rather than purely symbolic meaning.
In the analysis of Andy Warhol’s Ten Lizes, Anca Teodora Pora focuses on repetition, colour variation, and seriality, successfully linking them to mass culture and the loss of individuality. Still, other interpretations are possible, such as reading the repeated image as a comment on emotional emptiness or mortality, not only celebrity culture.
The video material mainly analyzes formal elements such as colour, composition, balance, and repetition, without explicit interpretation. These elements may nevertheless suggest partial meanings: repetition can imply monotony or mass production, strong colour contrasts may convey emotional intensity, and overall composition can suggest control or detachment. Taken as a whole, the artwork can be interpreted as a structured visual statement in which formal choices shape meaning and viewer response.
Gavriloie Anuța Nicoleta
ReplyDeleteFoto-Video PCI
anul 3
1. “The Marriage of Giovanni Arnolfini and Jeanne Cenami” – Erwin Panofsky
Panofsky explains the ,,Arnolfini Portrait” as a symbolic image of a marriage ceremony. He believes that every detail in the painting has a meaning: the joined hands show union, the dog represents loyalty, the shoes suggest a special space, the candle stands for God’s presence, and the mirror acts as a witness. His analysis is clear and well organized, which makes it convincing.
However, later historical documents show that the Arnolfini couple married after the painter’s death. This weakens Panofsky’s interpretation. Some elements may also have simple, everyday explanations, such as taking off shoes inside the house. In my opinion, Panofsky’s reading is interesting, but it sometimes uses too much symbolism. The painting can also be seen as a formal portrait that shows wealth, social status, and family values.
2. “Ten Lizes” – Andy Warhol (based on the text by Anca Teodora Pora)
In her analysis, Anca Teodora Pora explains ,,Ten Lizes” as a comment on celebrity culture. The repeated image of Elizabeth Taylor shows how fame can turn a person into a product. I find this interpretation convincing, especially because Warhol often worked with themes related to mass media.
At the same time, other interpretations are possible. Repetition may also help preserve the image of a famous person, turning Liz Taylor into a cultural icon. The faded and imperfect images can suggest that fame is fragile and temporary. I would also pay more attention to color and texture, as they add emotional meaning to the work.
3. The video material
The video analyzes formal elements such as composition, color, light, texture, and line, without giving direct meanings. One possible interpretation is that the contrast between light and shadow shows the difference between appearance and reality. The repetition of forms may suggest visual monotony in modern life. Overall, the work can be seen as a reflection on how images influence the way we see the world.
Tokes Tamas Grafica ANUL 2
ReplyDeleteTask 1
The text “The Marriage of Giovanni Arnolfini and Jeanne Cenami” by Erwin Panofsky is a critical essay based on formal analysis and it focuses a lot on symbolic and visual elements. Panofsky describes objects like the mirror, the dog, the candle and the gestures of the figures, and then he interprets them as symbols related to marriage, religion and social status. His analysis is convincing because he uses historical knowledge and detailed description, but sometimes it feels like every element must have a hidden meaning. Another possible interpretation could be that some objects are only decorative and part of everyday life.
Task 2
In “Ten Lizes” by Andy Warhol, analyzed by Anca Teodora Pora, the author focuses on repetition, color and technique. The description of the work is clear and the interpretation is connected with mass production, celebrity culture and loss of individuality. This analysis is convincing because it fits well with Warhol’s style and the Pop Art movement. However, another element that could be analyzed more is the emotional effect of repetition on the viewer and how it creates distance between the image and the audience.
Task 3
After watching the video “How to do visual (formal) analysis in art history”, the elements that are analyzed are mainly formal ones, such as composition, scale, space and form. The video explains that formal analysis is based on what we can see directly, without adding symbolic or historical meanings.
One element discussed is composition, which can create balance or tension. A balanced composition can make the work feel calm, while an unbalanced one can create movement or discomfort. Another element is scale, where larger figures attract more attention and seem more important. The video also mentions space, showing how depth or flatness changes the way we experience the image.
Overall, even if the video does not give direct interpretations, these formal elements together influence how the viewer understands and feels the artwork as a whole
Hegedus Panna Borbala/grafica/ II
ReplyDeleteArt can be interpreted in multiple ways depending on the analytical method applied, and each approach reveals different layers of meaning. In the case of Jan van Eyck’s The Marriage of Giovanni Arnolfini and Jeanne Cenami, a symbolic reading suggests that the painting goes beyond a simple portrait and functions as a statement of marriage and commitment. Elements such as the dog, the joined hands, the mirror, and the single candle can be understood as symbols of fidelity, unity, divine presence, and witness. At the same time, the emphasis on rich clothing and detailed interior decoration also allows for a more straightforward interpretation, in which the work highlights the wealth and social status of the couple rather than conveying a complex symbolic narrative.
Andy Warhol’s Ten Lizes presents a very different approach to meaning. Through repetition, large scale, and the use of silkscreen printing, the artwork reflects modern society’s obsession with mass production and consumption. As the image is reproduced multiple times and gradually loses clarity, individuality and emotional depth are diminished. The portrait becomes a recognizable but empty image, suggesting how mass culture reduces iconic figures to commodities valued more for quantity than for authenticity or spirit.
A more formal and contemplative reading can be applied to Giovanni Bellini’s Madonna of the Meadow. By analyzing elements such as scale, composition, light, color, and space, the painting reveals a sense of balance, intimacy, and spiritual calm. The pyramidal composition and soft light emphasize stability and grace, while the harmonious landscape situates the sacred figures within nature. Rather than relying on strong symbolism or social critique, the work invites quiet reflection, embodying Renaissance ideals of divine beauty expressed through order, serenity, and natural harmony.
Overall, these examples demonstrate how symbolism, social commentary, and formal analysis each offer valid and complementary ways of understanding art, shaping our interpretation according to the visual language and intentions behind each work.
Task 1:
ReplyDeleteIn analyzing the text by Erwin Panofsky on the Arnolfini Portrait, it is clear that his approach is based on a very deep deconstruction of symbolism. He interprets the painting not just as a portrait, but as a religious and legal document. I found his analysis of the single candle and the dog very convincing because he connects these small, formal elements to the larger "purpose" of the work, which is to witness a sacred marriage. However, I think it is possible to interpret these elements in a more secular way. Instead of the candle representing the eye of God, it could simply be an element used to show off the artist's skill in painting light and reflection. If I were to choose another element to analyze, I would have focused more on the mirror in the background. While Panofski sees it as a symbol of purity, I think its placement is a brilliant principle of design that pulls the viewer into the room, making us feel like we are physically standing there as witnesses.
Task 2:
The analysis of Andy Warhol’s "Ten Lizes", is also very effective but focuses more on the style and repetition of the image. The author interprets the grid of Elizabeth Taylor’s face as a way to show how modern fame turns a human being into a mass-produced product. This interpretation is quite convincing because it fits the industrial context of the Pop Art movement. However, I think the variation in the ink, where some faces are darker and others are fading, could be interpreted differently. It might suggest the "decay" of memory or the way a celebrity's true identity is lost the more it is copied. If I had to choose a different element to focus on, I would have picked the artificial color palette. The bright, unnatural tones emphasize how disconnected the image is from reality, which helps evaluate Warhol’s purpose of showing art as something manufactured rather than natural.
Task 3:
The video analyzes formal elements like composition, scale, lighting, color, texture, and line without providing direct interpretations. These elements can be deconstructed to suggest several meanings; for instance, the soft light can represent serenity and grace, while the interplay of light and shadow might reflect a tension between surface appearance and underlying reality. While the pyramidal composition suggests order and safety, the use of repeated visual motifs could also point to the monotony or uniformity of contemporary life. The work shows how images dominate our perception of reality, using geometrical balance and luminous color to place the sacred and the natural in harmony. By creating a sense of spiritual calm rather than dramatic emotion, the painting highlights how divine presence can be found within the form of natural beauty.