LibGuides: Christianity and the Visual Arts: Reading Images

Reading Images

Images have a particular language that goes beyond their source material. These books will help you understand how to read icons and further understand what the artist is trying to convey/communicate to the viewer.

The Routledge Companion to Medieval Iconography edited by Colum Hourihane
Essay series on famous iconographers, methodologies, and specific genres of iconographic interest during the Middle Ages. Great introductory resource in all categories.
Theology of the Icon by Leonid Ouspensky; Elizabeth Meyendorff (Translator)
Perhaps one of the most comprehensive introductions to theology and the icon. Written upon the basis of Russian Orthodoxy, but a very useful tool (particularly Volume I).
Understanding Illuminated Manuscripts by Michelle P. Brown
Very thorough introductory resource for grasping the terminology used to discuss iconography.
A Guide to Christian Art by Diane Apostolos-Cappadona
A general history of the intersection of art and Christianity, as well as a thorough breakdown of themes and motifs used in biblical art to convey information.
Worship Without Words by Patricia S. Klein
Provides an explanation of various signs and symbols associated with liturgical tradition.

Christ Giving the Keys of the Kingdom to Saint Peter, Perugino, 1481. Sistine Chapel, Rome, Italy.