Marriage à la Mode: 1. The Marriage Settlement

Discover the allure of art with our faithful reproduction of "Marriage à la Mode: 1. The Marriage Settlement", originally brought to life by the talented William Hogarth. Unlike posters or prints, our hand-painted oil painting breathes an unique sense of depth and texture into your space. Every detail, every stroke, and every texture is meticulously recreated, paying the perfect homage to William Hogarth and his artistic vision.

Owning this piece is more than just decoration - it's a statement of your refined taste in art. Let the vibrant colors and intricate details of this replica serve as a daily reminder of the beauty in our world. Elevate your decor and appreciate the richness of art with our replica of this masterpiece.

"Marriage à la Mode: 1. The Marriage Settlement" is the first painting in a series of six satirical works by the English artist William Hogarth, titled "Marriage à la Mode." Created in the mid-18th century, this series serves as a pointed critique of arranged marriages among the aristocracy for monetary and social gain, rather than love or compatibility. The paintings were designed as a sequential narrative, akin to visual storytelling, and were later engraved to reach a wider audience.

The first scene, "The Marriage Settlement," sets the stage for the tragicomedy that unfolds throughout the series. It depicts the contractual arrangement between the Earl of Squanderfield, who is eager to elevate his family's status, and a wealthy but socially inferior city merchant who seeks an aristocratic title for his daughter. The painting is rich in symbolism and detail, revealing the characters' personalities and foreshadowing their fates.

In the opulent yet deteriorating room, the Earl is shown with a bandaged leg, indicating his gout—a disease associated with excess—and points proudly to a family tree that traces his lineage. The merchant, on the other hand, is focused on the marriage contract and the financial transaction, ignoring his daughter who is disinterestedly listening to a counsel. The daughter's future husband, the Viscount, sits to her side, more engaged with his reflection in the mirror than with the proceedings, hinting at his vanity and disinterest in the marriage.

Hogarth's work is celebrated for its intricate detail, biting social commentary, and the moral messages embedded within the imagery. "Marriage à la Mode: 1. The Marriage Settlement" is no exception, offering a scathing look at the mercenary marriage practices of the time and setting the scene for the subsequent moral and physical decline of the characters portrayed in the later paintings of the series. The series is considered one of Hogarth's masterpieces and remains an important cultural critique of 18th-century English society.

When you order this oil painting replica, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to paint. If the artwork is more complex, it might need a little more time to ensure the best quality. Once it's ready, we'll send you a photo for your approval. After you give the green light, we'll ship it to you for free.

We believe in the quality of our hand-painted oil painting reproductions, and your satisfaction is our priority. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 45-day return policy. You can return your artwork within 45 days of receipt and receive a full refund. Please note that the artwork must be returned in the original packaging and in the same condition as it was received.