The Dissimilar Couple

Israhel van Meckenem

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a man and a woman standing side by side. The man is positioned with his body slightly turned towards the woman, and his head is tilted in her direction. He has distinct facial features, with a serious expression. He wears a cap with a row of buttons, a long tunic belted at the waist, tights, pointed shoes, and holds a sword. The woman stands with her arms crossed, facing the man. Her facial features are soft, and she wears a tall, elaborate headdress with a lattice pattern, a long dress, and voluminous sleeves. The background has a dark, textured backdrop with a swirling ribbon pattern around the figures, and decorative plants with prominent leaves. The artwork is monochromatic with detailed line work.