Symbols of Christian Art in the Middle Ages

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Christian Art created during the Middle Ages is full of symbolism. From animals and plants to colors and numbers, most every aspect of Medieval Christian art and architecture is symbolic of something.

The following are examples of symbolic colors and their meanings:

* Black: symbolic of death or loss
* Blue: the color of the sky, is symbolic of heaven, may also be used to symbolize truth * Brown: symbolic of spiritual death and degradation
* Green: the color of plant life, used to represent the triumph of life over death * Purple: symbolic of penitence and mourning, is also the color of royalty * Red: the color of blood, symbolic of passion

* White or silver: symbolic of purity, innocence and holiness * Yellow: symbolic of divinity, may also be used to symbolize corruption and degradation

The following are examples of symbolic animals and their meanings:

*Butterfly: symbolic of the Resurrection
* Cat: symbolic of lust and laziness
* Dove: symbolic of the Holy Spirit, also purity and peace
* Fish: symbolic of Jesus
* Lion: symbolic of Jesus
* Ox: symbolic of strength, service and patience
* Peacock: symbolic of immortality, resurrection
* Stag or deer: symbolic of piety or devotion
*Unicorn: symbolic of purity and of feminine chastity

The following are examples of symbolic plants and their meanings:

* Acacia: symbolic of the soul's immortality
* Bramble: symbolic of the purity of the Virgin Mary
* Carnation: a red carnation symbolizes love, pink is a symbol of marriage * Clover: symbolic of the Trinity
* Elm: symbolic of dignity and faithfulness.
* Fern: symbolic of humility in solitude.
* Fig: symbolic of lust or fertility
* Grape: symbolic of the blood of Christ
* Hyacinth: symbolic of prudence and peace of mind.
* Ivy: symbolic of faithfulness and eternal life.
* Laurel: symbolic of victory or triumph, particularly over temptation and trial * Lily: symbolizes purity
* Olive: symbolic of peace, Olive oil is symbolic...
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