Hall%20Subjects%20and%20Symbols%20extracts

Introduction

• James Hall's Dictionary of Subjects and Symbols in Art

• Introduced by Kenneth Clark from John Murray.

Page 2: Key Themes in Art

Mocking of Christ

• Depicts Christ with a crown of thorns, red or purple robe, reed sceptre.

• Soldiers mock Christ, striking him and paying homage.

• Common motif in Italian art of the 15th and 16th centuries.

• Variations include Christ blindfolded, holding sceptre, or depicted blindfold with hands bound.

• Historical origins linked to medieval religious drama and the cult of the crown of thorns.

• Southern artists opted for restraint, depicting smaller thorns.

Crozier

• A processional staff with a cross.

• Crozier types include those before patriarchs, bishops, or popes.

• Attributes associated with notable figures like St. Benedict, St. Martin, etc.

Crucifixion

General Significance

• Central image in Christian art; reflects various interpretations in different eras.

• Early depictions symbolize Christ's kindred role to Lamb, focusing on redemption.

• Transition over centuries from symbolic representations to vivid narratives in artworks.

Scene Characteristics

1. The Cross: Different forms, typically the tau-cross in early art, representing punishment.

   • Contrasts with crucifixions in art showing alterations over the years regarding placement and style.

2. Thieves: Represented either bound or nailed; relationship between good and evil.

3. Lance and Sponge Bearer: Symbol of Christ's death, one soldier perceived as a conversion symbol.

4. Soldiers Casting Lots: Reflection of Christ's garments in varying artistic interpretations.

5. Virgin Mary and St John: Expresses emotional weight of crucifixion; shifts in depiction over time from stoicism to overt grief.

6. Virgin Swooning: No biblical basis but a Medieval interpretation that depicted the suffering Virgin.

Page 3: Detailed Analysis

Crucifixion Specifics

• Foot of the Cross: Significant elements like sun, moon, and figures accompanying the cross depict moral themes (good vs. evil).

  • Reference to the Two Thieves, embodying the contrasting human struggle before the Holy.

  • Recurring imagery of blood, death, and fundamental themes of Christian doctrine.

Iconography

• The portrayal of the Virgin Mary exhibits emotional depth, sorrow, and enlightenment over time.

• Symbolic elements like the chalice for the blood of Christ showing early sacraments in art.

• Elements of Gothic and Renaissance art enforcing a controlled imagery for teaching and meditation.

Page 4: Additional Themes

Virgin Mary Contrasted with Other Figures

• The Virgin as symbolic of purity, maternal love, and sorrow provides a deep emotional narrative in Christian iconography.

• Role as intercessor within the contextual narrative of Christian teachings.

Additional Symbols

1. Skull and Serpent: Frequent motifs alluding to themes of redemption, original sin, and the crucifixion narrative.

2. Wound and Chalice: The wound signifies the link to baptism and communion by representing Christ as a figure of redemption.

3. Sun and Moon: The accompanying celestial bodies signify profound cosmic reactions to Christ’s sacrifice.

Allegorical Interpretations

1. Pelican: Represents Christ's sacrifice, with interpretations reflecting loving devotion across artworks.

2. Cycling Themes: Themes of charity, candor in religious contexts, and the transformations within cultural narratives of religious faith.

Page 5: Continuity of Iconography

Virgin Mary In Sum

• Throughout history, her depictions reflect the evolving attitudes towards feminine virtues within Christianity.

• Diverse portrayals, from the students of Christan virtues to deep emotional expressions of motherhood and grief.

Final Thoughts

• The transition from sacred to secular interpretation highlights an ongoing dialogue within religious contexts during the eras of art development.

• Engagement with the themes of sorrow and hope deeply engages believers in their reflection on faith and religious symbolism.