Bibliograph

Symbols in art, Matthew Wilson

Type

Label

Symbols in art, Matthew Wilson

Language

eng

Bibliography note

Includes bibliographical references and index

Illustrations

illustrations

Index

index present

Literary Form

non fiction

Main title

Symbols in art

Nature of contents

bibliography

Oclc number

1180209627

Responsibility statement

Matthew Wilson

Series statement

Art essentials

Summary

Iconography, the study of symbols - be they animals, artefacts, plants, shapes or gestures - is an essential element of art history. This guide unravels over fifty of the most common and intriguing visual symbols from across the globe from 2300 BCE to the present day. While symbols cross dialects and national boundaries, their meanings can vary and are often culturally specific. The snake, an object of fascination and mysticism in Aztec culture, usually represents sin in the west. Yinka Shonibare's Last Supper (2013) plays on the grapevine's historic associations to satiric and startling effect. Matt Wilson explores symbolism's subtle implications and overt and covert meanings, providing an indispensable tool for interpretation. A reference section includes suggestions for further reading and a glossary of art and historical terms

Table Of Contents

Land and sky -- Plants -- Birds -- Beasts -- Bodies -- Possessions

Target audience

adult

Classification