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Reprinted from:
Honar Nameh
University of Art, Tehran
No. 6, 2000
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A
brief of the article) |
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Research
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Symbolism
in Traditional Arts
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Art
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By: Kamran Afshar Mohajer, Iran |
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Throughout history, man
has been able to express concepts symbolically better
than other methods. Geometric, plant and animal
symbols are discussed.
In geometric symbols, the circle symbolizes wholeness,
spirit of time and balance. It is in the most complete
geometric shape. In Iranian mythology, the circle, the
sphere and the hemisphere are symbols of Mitra; and
the sqaure and the cube symbolizes Ahura-mazda.
The square represents the firmament of the earth,
stability, strength, immobility, permanence and
reality. It is the symbol of whole world and it is
associated with the place and number of
"Four"; it represents the four directions,
the four elements, four stages of human life cycle,
four stages of man's evolution, the four phlegm, four
seasons and the for natures.
The isosceles triangle is the symbol of coordination,
proportion and fecundity, sometimes representing the
earth. With its point up, it is a symbol of fire and
the masculine element; with its point down, it
symbolizes water and feminine element. In Iranian
mythology, the triangle is the symbol of Anahita.
Plant symbol has been used since distant past and it
was usually symmetrical in pre-Islamic examples. In
the Islamic era, it is utilized to illuminate God's
word, and thus it shows a marvelous evolution with the
aim of suggesting a spiritual space.
Animal symbols populate Greek and Indian myths and
they occupy an important position in Christianity too.
Animal symbols are important in Iranian Art and myths
too. Pictures of animals of good omen such as lion,
horse, bird and fish decorate objects.
Geometric, plant and animal motifs have been employed
in symbolism of traditional arts, some of which have
disappeared from history.
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Research:
Art |
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