This historical scene captures an Armenian girl being led by two women to the church for marriage in the early 18th-century Ottoman Empire. Painted by European artists who often documented life in Constantinople, the image reflects not only the solemnity of the occasion but also the richness of Armenian wedding traditions.
Red as the Color of Marriage
While white gowns are almost universal among Armenian brides today, this was not always the case. In early 18th-century Constantinople, Armenian wedding dresses were most often red, particularly among wealthy families. Red symbolized prosperity, fertility, and continuity of life. This choice of color connected Armenian customs with older traditions across the region, where red was seen as the most auspicious and joyful color for a bride.
The artwork we see here was originally black and white. To restore the traditional Armenian wedding dress to its full appearance, I colorized the painting, emphasizing the vibrant red gown that would have been worn at the time. The result offers a glimpse into how Armenian weddings looked in the Ottoman capital more than 300 years ago.
A Procession Filled with Meaning
Another striking detail is the two women leading the bride. Their role was not merely ceremonial; it reflected the communal nature of Armenian weddings. Marriage was never seen as an individual journey but as an event that bound families, neighbors, and entire communities together.
In some depictions, the accompanying women are shown with veils, symbolizing modesty and respect. The church procession thus carried both religious and cultural meaning, reminding everyone present that the couple was entering not only a marriage but a sacred covenant.
Preserving Cultural Memory
By studying these images and reviving them through color, we can better understand the history of Armenian wedding traditions. They remind us that what we often take for granted—such as the modern white wedding dress—is a relatively recent adoption, while older customs reveal the values and aesthetics of past generations.
This 18th-century Armenian wedding scene, with its red gown, solemn procession, and communal symbolism, continues to speak to us today about identity, heritage, and continuity.