A Handbook of Symbols in Christian Art [Paperback]

Gertrude Grace Sill (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 1, 1996

Explore one of the richest and most rewarding aspects of Western art with this comprehensive easy-to-use, portable guide to Christian symbols.

Organized like a primer, with hundreds of entries in 50 categories -- from A for Angels to Z for Zodiac -- this handy pocket reference enables you to recognize at a glance the identity and meaning of all the elements in any Christian work of art. 162 paintings from every century illustrate the enduring themes of our biblical heritage.

A short introductory essay explains how to use the handbook and the functions of symbols in art. Cross-references, illustrations, a detailed index, and the pocket-book size make A Handbook of Symbols in Christian Art an invaluable work for museum-goers, students, travelers, art collectors, and general readers.

Product Details

• Paperback: 256 pages
• Publisher: Touchstone (June 1, 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0684826836
• ISBN-13: 978-0684826837
• Product Dimensions: 7.9 x 5 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8.8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,193,089 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

13 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Concise and Informative, August 30, 2000

By 

Enrique Torres "Rico" (San Diegotitlan, Califas) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)   

This review is from: A Handbook of Symbols in Christian Art (Paperback)

As stated, this is a handbook, therefore the format is easy to read and gives you the basic information. If something then strikes your fancy you can then do further research based upon this excellent starting reference point. If you have very little religious background this will help you understand Christianity in Art. Even Christians will find the book informative and full of things that they did not know. For example, did you know that the number 1000 represents eternity? The handbook is layed out alphabetically, beginning with angels and ending with zodiac, all for your convenience. My only complaint is that the art depicted is small, in black and white and therefore does not show the details of the pieces of art. A good book for anyone interested in art, specifically Christian Art. The explanations of the symbolism is very good, it tells you just enough.

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great Reference Book, May 3, 2000

By A Customer

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: A Handbook of Symbols in Christian Art (Paperback)

This book is very informative and interesting. It is laid out in an easy to read way and is a great reference book for anyone who loves art. I would definitely suggest this book to anyone who has ever looked at Christian art and wondered what exactly does it mean.

5.0 out of 5 stars Very useful, July 23, 2010

By 

JH (San Francisco) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: A Handbook of Symbols in Christian Art (Paperback)

Great reference book -- clear, interesting, not overly academic. If you enjoy art or travel abroad (especially Europe), this is a great book to have along to better understand and enjoy Christian art.