In which year was the Arnolfini Portrait painted?

The Arnolfini Portrait, painted by Jan van Eyck, is widely recognized as one of the most significant works of early Northern Renaissance art and was created in 1434. This date is well-supported by various art historians and is corroborated by inscriptions found within the painting itself, which indicate its completion during that year.

The portrait features a detailed depiction of a couple, traditionally identified as Giovanni di Nicolao di Arnolfini and his wife, and showcases van Eyck's remarkable attention to detail, use of oil paint, and innovative techniques that contributed to the depth and realism of the work. The symbolic elements present in the painting, such as the mirror and the presence of certain objects, are reflective of the cultural and social context of the 15th century.

The other dates provided do not align with the historical or art historical consensus regarding the artwork's creation. The significance of the year 1434 is not only foundational for understanding this particular portrait but also contributes to the broader narrative of art development during the Northern Renaissance.