Catholic Dictionary

Find accurate definitions of over 5,000 Catholic terms and phrases (including abbreviations). Based on Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.

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ICONOGRAPHY

The science of the description and interpretation of the traditional representations of sacred symbols in art as found in mosaics, statues, and pictures. Many of the scenes from the Bible and legends of the saints that decorate the walls and ceilings of Christian churches have historical as well as doctrinal importance. Iconography studies this significance. (Etym. Greek eikōn, image + graphia, writing, sketch.)