| Symbols represent pictures, objects, written words, sounds or something like that and imply ideas, thoughts, attitudes, beliefs and feelings. A number of them are very common, like white rectangle on red background referring to “Stop”, others have particular significance and evoke deep feelings. The examples of such symbols are the crucifix in Christianity and Judaic Star of David.
We are surrounded by symbols. Every day we are faced with something that has a symbolic significance. You will find symbols on money, in books, commercials, music compositions, politics etc. To realize the sense of a symbol a viewer should know what this symbol signifies. For example, the Chinese yin and yang symbol seems an amusing picture with white and black colors for people that do not know the underlying meaning of the sign. They may enjoy its aesthetic side and design, but they don't see more than that. Quite the contrary, in case a person knows the origin of the symbol he sees not a simple image, but an idea of deep interrelation of things in our life.
During the history of humanity symbols were vastly used in art. In this way, one item on a painting tells a lot about the situation, the concepts of the painter, his views on life and aspirations. To understand the underlying meaning of a book or a music composition we have to pay special attention to details. From time to time we have to get to know the professionals' point of view on a certain work of art to get the idea of the author. This is due to the complication of the language of symbols.
So what are the most popular symbols in art and what do they refer to?
Amongst the most common symbols used in pieces of art are a book, a candle, clocks and mirrors. A book usually refers to learning and transmitting of knowledge. If you see a lightened candle on a painting it is in most cases a symbol of time passing or faith in God. On the other hand, a put-out candle signifies death and mourning. A clock refers to the time passing. In this regard the well-known painting of Salvador Dali called “Melting clocks” represents an idea that nothing in our life complies with some rules. And finally, a mirror stands for attempts to find the truth, but in some cases it just represents the vanity.
In this way, symbols are everywhere around us. We just need to be a little more attentive to details to see them. |
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