The Marriage Contract

Discover the allure of art with our faithful reproduction of "The Marriage Contract", 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.

"The Marriage Contract" is one of the paintings from the series "Marriage A-la-Mode" created by the English painter and printmaker William Hogarth. Painted in 1743, this series satirizes the custom of arranged marriages among the aristocracy of the 18th century. The series consists of six pictures that serve as a pointed commentary on the mercenary nature of such unions, where financial and social gains were often prioritized over affection and compatibility.

The first painting in the series, "The Marriage Contract," sets the stage for the tragicomic narrative that unfolds across the subsequent scenes. In this initial work, Hogarth depicts the negotiation of a marriage settlement between the Earl of Squanderfield, whose family lineage is distinguished but whose finances are in disarray, and a wealthy but socially inferior city merchant who seeks an aristocratic match for his daughter. The scene is rich in symbolism and detail, with the characters' expressions and the cluttered setting providing insight into their personalities and the dynamics at play.

The painting is a masterful example of Hogarth's skill in using visual storytelling to critique social conventions. The characters are portrayed with a mixture of realism and caricature, highlighting the folly and corruption underlying the transaction. The Earl's gouty leg, the merchant's calculating demeanor, and the indifferent attitude of the young couple, who are to be wed, all serve to underscore the cynical nature of the arrangement.

"The Marriage Contract" and the rest of the "Marriage A-la-Mode" series are considered some of Hogarth's most significant contributions to the art of social satire. The paintings were initially conceived as paintings but were later engraved and published as prints, allowing for a wider audience to engage with Hogarth's incisive commentary on the mores of his time. Today, the series is held in high regard for its artistic merit and its historical importance as a window into 18th-century English society. The original paintings are part of the collection at the National Gallery in London.

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.