Publisher's Synopsis
An illustrated guide to everything concealed beneath the surface of the greatest masterpieces of all time. Concealed beneath even the most straight forward images are hidden meanings, allegories, references, symbols, and coded messages. Using a delightful and fun approach, this volume brings together an extensive series of symbols, all illustrated and annotated, to help readers discover and understand unexpected references. Conceived and realized as a practical guide, Signs, Symbols, Meanings is easy to use, enjoyable to leaf through, and fun and full of surprises. The volume includes a general introduction and reading guide as well as a series of themed chapters devoted to various aspects of symbology: man, nature, life and death, love, religion, and vices and virtues. The work is completed by practical apparatuses for consultation purposes.
