The Symbols of Art

Unpack the powerful visual symbols artists have used throughout history. From a single flower to a carefully placed skull, works of art across history are filled with symbols that carry powerful meanings. The Symbols of Art reveals how artists use these symbols to communicate ideas without relying on words. Why is there a lily in that religious painting? Why does a still life include an hourglass, a mirror, or a piece of fruit? In some cases, these symbols would have been immediately understood by contemporary viewers but now need decoding for a modern audience. In other instances, symbolism is more deliberately elusive, inviting viewers to look closer and think deeper. This richly illustrated visual reference includes: - Over 100 key symbols drawn from art history - Symbols from the natural world, the manmade world, the supernatural, and colors and shapes - Famous artworks used as case studies to show symbolism in context - How meanings change across cultures, movements, and centuries - An easy-to-navigate, fully indexed structure designed for quick consultation as well as browsing Bringing together examples from across periods, cultures, and artistic movements, art historian Susie Hodge explains how symbolic meanings can shift depending on time, place, and intention, revealing layers of interpretation that radically deepen our understanding of artworks. Clearly organized and expertly written, The Symbols of Art is both an authoritative reference and an inviting guide for curious readers. Whether you're visiting a gallery, studying art history, or simply want to see artworks with fresh eyes, this book gives you the tools to decode visual meaning and experience art more deeply.

Susie Hodge is a UK-based author who has written over 100 books for adults and children. An experienced teacher and lecturer, Susie also holds an MA in Art History from Birkbeck, University of London and is a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.

CONTENTS 6 Introduction The Natural World Plants Sunflower, Jasmine, Poppy, Forget-me-not, Daisy, Iris, Rose, Lotus, Lily, Carnation, Cypress, Laurel, Palm, Oak Fruit Apple, Vine and Grapes, Olive and Olive Tree, Fig, Orange, Watermelon, Lemon, Banana, Pomegranate, Strawberry, Cherry Animals Horse, Snake, Monkey, Lion, Deer, Cat, Dog, Fish, Lobster, Dolphin, Seashell, Crane, Peacock, Falcon, Owl, Eagle, Dove, Raven and Crow, Feathers Insects Butterfly, Bee, Dragonfly, Beetle, Fly Bodies Skull, Blood, Heart, Hands, Eyes, Ears, Feet, Hair Land, Water and Air Mountains, Woods and Forests, Rivers, Sea, Clouds, Rain, Sun, Moon, Stars The Manmade World The Home Bed, Chairs, Mirrors, Clock, Hourglass, Book, Globe, Window, Door, Scale, Key Clothing Shoe, Glove, Mask, Jewellery, Umbrella Music Trumpet, Lute, Flute, Piano Objects Weapons, Chains, Cross, Balloon Food Bread, Egg, Chocolate, Onion and Garlic, Corn The Supernatural World Dragon, Halo, Phoenix, Angel Colours and Shapes Colours Red, Yellow, Blue, Green, Purple, Orange, Pink, White, Black Shapes Triangle, Circle, Square, Spiral Index Credits Acknowledgements