Iconography

Iconography is the study or interpretation of symbols and icons, particularly within the context of art, literature, religion, and culture. It involves the analysis of visual symbols and their meanings, often in a historical or cultural context. Iconography encompasses a wide range of symbols, including religious symbols, mythological figures, allegorical representations, and everyday objects.

The subjects depicted, the particular compositions and details used to do so, and other elements that are distinct from artistic style. The word iconography comes from the Greek εἰκών (“image”) and γράφειν (“to write” or to draw).

A secondary meaning (based on a non-standard translation of the Greek and Russian equivalent terms). It is the production or study of the religious images, called “icons”. In the Byzantine and Orthodox Christian tradition. This usage is mostly found in works translated from languages such as Greek or Russian, with the correct term being “icon painting”.

History

In the context of art history, iconography refers to the identification, description, and interpretation of the symbolic content within artworks. This involves understanding the cultural, religious, and historical significance of symbols and motifs used by artists. For example semiotics, media studies, and archaeology. In general usage, for the content of images, the typical depiction in images of a subject, and related senses.

Sometimes distinctions have been made between iconology and iconography, although the definitions, and so the distinction made, varies. When referring to movies, genres are immediately recognizable through their iconography.

Iconography is not limited to visual arts but also extends to other forms of communication and representation. It is essential for understanding the deeper layers of meaning in visual and textual works, as symbols often carry cultural and historical associations that may not be immediately apparent to the viewer or reader. Scholars and researchers in various fields use iconography to analyze and interpret the symbolic language of different cultures and time periods.