Looking at the drawings or hieroglyphs on cave walls from prehistoric times, one could say they were art, even though the terminology hadn't yet been coined. It was a practical and functional form of art.
So, when we talk about religion, which is also closely related to art, a question arises: Which came first—religion or art?
Along with time, art evolved to become more refined and technical. And, it turns out, religion played a major role in the evolution of art, which then popularized the term "iconography".
Just like his name, iconography is the use of symbols whose forms are recognized globally. Nowadays, we think icon may have penetrated the world of celebrities, from Andy Warhol to Beyonce. However, initially, someone who was considered icon (or iconic) refers to a religious figure such as Jesus.
After that, icon It can also refer to a familiar object. The simplest example is the universally recognized "+" shape representing a cross. Or calligraphy representing Islam. In short, they are symbols of their respective religions.
Iconography: Representation of Religion in the World of Art
The representation of religion in the world of art began in the Roman era, more precisely in the Byzantine era (330–1453) when arguments began about the appropriateness of religious figures being depicted in works of art.
To iconoclasts against, while the iconophile supports the display of religious figures in pictures or paintings which of course still have the function of being worshipped.
In fact, in the Middle Ages, almost all artists worked under the auspices of the church. They were employed to create works of art that included icon and the teachings of Christianity which were later called Medieval Art.
And it just so happened that most of the artists at that time were religious figures who saw God's intervention when they created their works.
The most popular works from this era are paintings Christ Pantocrator (500-600) which is considered to be the oldest religious painting in the world. Another trivia, Gothic architecture first emerged from the era Medieval Art this.
When the art world enters a phase Renaissance, or what is also known as the Age of Enlightenment, the intersection between art and religion grew stronger. Interpretation of art in this era Renaissance, especially those related to religion, are starting to shift towards something more down to earth and humanistic, more dynamic and life-like.
Artists such as Michelangelo and Leonardo DaVinci are two artists who emerged from the Enlightenment era. Fresh The Last Judgment Michelangelo's work painted on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, Vatican is one of the most popular works of art which is so thick with iconography.
Looking at its history, it is undeniable that the discussion iconography It is indeed more focused on the religious aspects of the Western continent. Islamic teachings forbid depictions of prophets, so symbolism encompasses more architectural and object aspects.
In Buddhism, besides the figure of Siddharta Gautama with his iconic meditation pose, iconography others include lotus flowers and Bodhi trees. While not much different from Buddha, temples, shrines, along with various figures of gods and goddesses, so iconography most popular in Hindu teachings.
Entering the 20th century, iconography religious beliefs have also begun to spread to other forms of art, including film. Films such as The DaVinci Code, Life of Pi, Mother!, and various horror films with a religious background (from Rosemary's Baby to Immaculate starring Sydney Sweeney) makes extensive use of various religious icons.
Throughout history, art and religion seem to have had a mutually beneficial relationship. Thanks to the support of religious figures, artists had an incentive to continue creating; and thanks to artists, the influence of religion spread even further.
As a result, an icon was born.
