Hidden Meanings

Works that at first sight seem simple and clear often hold a deeper symbolism, woven into them by the artist. Objects, plants, animals, signs, people or even entire scenes may actually symbolise something entirely different. Examples include an artist’s palette and brushes referring to the art of painting itself, and a human skull evoking the transience of life. Many 17th-century genre paintings are crammed with double meanings and sexually tinted jokes. The intention of the artist was to lead the viewer on a train of thought. To achieve this, many artists would refer to their copy of Iconologia, in which the aesthetician Cesare Ripa explained how to depict intangible concepts using symbols. This guide is still used today to gain an understanding of works of art made centuries ago.