ICONOGRAPHY

Iconography:

The symbolic meanings of subjects and signs used to convey ideas important to particular cultures or religions, and the conventions governing the use of such forms.

Iconographic Confusion

Symbolism in Bosch Paintings…• Pigs = false priests; gluttony

• Fruit = carnal pleasure

• Rats = lies against the Church; filth; sex

• Fish = false prophets; lewdness

• Closed Books = futility of knowledge in dealing with human stupidity

• Keys = knowledge

• Lutes and Harps = instruments for praise of God and pursuit of earthly love

• Ears = gossip

• Mussel Shells = infidelity

• Black Birds = unbelievers

• Knives = punishment of evil

• Rabbits = multiplication of the race• Eggs = sexual creation

• Funnels = deceit and intemperance;

• Strawberries = fleeting joys of life, love

• Owls = great learning

23

JAN VAN EYCK, Giovanni Arnolfini and His Bride, 1434. Oil on wood, approx. 2’ 9" X 1’ 10 1/2". National Gallery,

London.