Author: Bruce-Mitford, Miranda

Theory of art

Published on 6 June 2019 by Dorling Kindersley Ltd (DK) in the United Kingdom as part of ‘the DK Compact Culture Guides’ series.

Hardback | 352 pages
233 x 196 x 30 | 1184g

Decode the secrets and uncover the origins and meanings of over 2,000 signs and symbols, from ancient hieroglyphs to modern-day logos.

Why is a heart pierced by an arrow a classic symbol of love? What are the ancient roots of fertility symbols? Why are scales a symbol of justice? Delve into the meaning of each symbol and investigate how they have been interpreted in myth, religion, folklore, and art over time, with authoritative text from experts in the field and striking line drawings and photography that emphasize the visual strength and beauty of signs. Divided into six thematic sections – the cosmos, the natural world, human life, myths and religions, society and culture, and symbol systems – this guide to the secret language of signs and symbols is a must-have for those who want to understand the world around them.