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The Hidden Symbolic
Meaning of Books in Western painting
From the earliest period
of Christian history the
clergy realized the
value of images in
keeping sinners on the
road to heaven.
Throughout the Christian
history the Church
commissioned sacred
images that acted as
moral instruction to
untaught peasants who
clamored for
spiritual enlightenment of the
holy scriptures. The
religious images,
carvings and stone work
served as a constant
reminder of the hellish
tortures that awaited
backsliders and sinners
if they strayed from
Gods word and church
law.
The iconographical interpretation of Books in
Byzantine, Gothic and Renaissance Painting
Byzantine, Gothic and
Early Renaissance
paintings are rich in
philosophical and
Christian symbolism
regarding Books.
The open book - signifies education, knowledge and
wisdom. Apostles and Saints are often shown with open books. The Virgin
Mary is frequently shown holding an open book, symbolic of her
submission to Gods Holy Law.
The open heart-shaped book - Saint Augustine (354-430) was regularly
depicted sitting at his desk with an open heart-shaped book, symbolic of
his passion for truth and reverence for the Word of God, the ultimate
source of light and truth.
The closed book - symbolizes incomplete knowledge. May also indicate the
presence of heretics and rejection of Gods Holy Law in favor of
heretical doctrines. A closed book also indicates the Kingdome of Heaven
is closed to non-believers.
The book with a cross on the cover - symbolizes the word of God, Gods
Devine Law, Church Law and Papal authority. The Apostles are frequently
depicted holding a book representing the New Testament.
Open book with pages torn out, strewn about- symbolizes rejection of
knowledge, reason, honor and morality, or a rejection of faith and
church authority.
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