Description
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.
A reference guide to fifty of the most frequently occurring symbols in global art history
About the Author
Matt Wilson is an art historian, educator and writer, who contributes to numerous publications. He is an examination specialist in the history of art.
Reviews
'Masterly ... the perfect introduction to a subject that can only heighten the general appreciation of art' - Christopher Lloyd, former Surveyor of The Queen's Pictures
Book Information
ISBN 9780500295748
Author Matthew Wilson
Format Paperback
Page Count 176
Imprint Thames & Hudson Ltd
Publisher Thames & Hudson Ltd
Weight(grams) 420g
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.
A reference guide to fifty of the most frequently occurring symbols in global art history
About the Author
Matt Wilson is an art historian, educator and writer, who contributes to numerous publications. He is an examination specialist in the history of art.
Reviews
'Masterly ... the perfect introduction to a subject that can only heighten the general appreciation of art' - Christopher Lloyd, former Surveyor of The Queen's Pictures
Book Information
ISBN 9780500295748
Author Matthew Wilson
Format Paperback
Page Count 176
Imprint Thames & Hudson Ltd
Publisher Thames & Hudson Ltd
Weight(grams) 420g
