The Symbols of Art: Decoding the Hidden Meanings of Art

Unpack the powerful visual symbols artists have used throughout history.

From a single flower to a carefully placed skull, works of art across history are filled with symbols that carry powerful meanings. The Symbols of Art reveals how artists use these symbols to communicate ideas without relying on words.

Why is there a lily in that religious painting? Why does a still life include an hourglass, a mirror or a piece of fruit? In some cases, these symbols would have been immediately understood by contemporary viewers but now need decoding for a modern audience. In other instances, symbolism is more deliberately elusive, inviting viewers to look closer and think deeper.

This richly illustrated visual reference includes:

Over 100 key symbols drawn from art history

Symbols from the natural world, the manmade world, the supernatural, and colours and shapes

Famous artworks used as case studies to show symbolism in context

How meanings change across cultures, movements and centuries

An easy-to-navigate, fully indexed structure designed for quick consultation as well as browsing

Bringing together examples from across periods, cultures and artistic movements, art historian Susie Hodge explains how symbolic meanings can shift depending on time, place and intention, revealing layers of interpretation that radically deepen our understanding of artworks.

Clearly organised and expertly written, The Symbols of Art is both an authoritative reference and an inviting guide for curious readers.

Whether you’re visiting a gallery, studying art history or simply want to see artworks with fresh eyes, this book gives you the tools to decode visual meaning and experience art more deeply.

Pages: 272

Publication year: 2026