I agree with Koster of Arnolfini double portrait on its representation being a betrothal/engagement ceremony. It is convincing because of the touching of the hands. Touching of the hands is considered as a sign where people promised to wed. Raising the right hand is the other reason, which is seen as a sign of taking an oath. When people were a wedding, they had to make vows with the right hand being raised.
One of the features that stand out is the dog which is at the feet of the woman. It is considered as a sign of fidelity, where the two individuals vow to remain faithful to each other during their lives. At the back of the painting, there is a sculptural representation of Saint Margaret. Saint Margaret is considered as the patron saint of childbirth, and since the woman is already pregnant, as seen from how she is holding her womb, it seems the couple has been blessed. In addition, the couple are making the vows when the woman is already pregnant, indicating that they may be renewing their vows.
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If I were having an engagement portrait, I would ensure that the rings on both hands are seen. It would be a sign that we both accepted the engagement. The other element would be a place of engagement, which would be in a holy ground such as a church, to show that it was witnessed by God. Elegance would be shown by the clothes we would be wearing, shoes and jewelry. The portrait would have both of us raising our right arms, showing that we both made the vows and would abide.
