Symbolism in Buddhist Art

Buddhist art as well as Buddhist culture and traditions has long history and among the first symbols and the most common ones are the stupa, Dharma wheel (means royalty initially), and the lotus flower (usually refers to the inherently pure potential of the mind). But, all of these symbols can have several meanings. Symbolism in Buddhist art is also traced via such early aniconic symbol as the trisula, the symbol that stands for the three jewels: the Buddha, the dharma, the sangha. In Buddhist culture swastika is traditionally used as a good luck sign, and is known as a general symbol of Buddhism in East Asia. Symbolism in Buddhist art is connected with a series of symbolic hand gestures, the Mudras, describing the actions of the characters represented in art. The Buddhist culture also tells about eight auspicious symbols: Endless knot, or the Mandala (harmony), Lotus flower (enlightenment), Victory Banner (victorious battle), Wheel of Dharma or Chamaru (knowledge), Treasure Vase (inexhaustible treasure and wealth), Golden Fish pair (conjugal happiness and freedom), Parasol (crown and protection), Conch shell (the thoughts of the Buddha).

Symbolism in Japanese Art

Symbolism in Japanese art is also a broad theme and often the symbols of this culture are used garden design. The main goal of such design is to create a beauty of nature on a small space. This is dictated by the inability to have large gardens in Japan due to it's little territory. Thus, symbolism in Japanese art, in gardening art, also takes place. For instance, rock or a line of rocks stand for longevity and prosperity, as well as a pound in tortoise shape, which means longevity also. Water signifies intellectual force, red bridge means route blessed to take to salvation, while split bridge prevents evil spirits from crossing since evil spirits are believed to only move in straight lines.

Symbolism in Indian Art

Indian art consists of various periods and it's ancient period began 3500 BCE. With so many years of cultural development the country now is rather interesting from the point of view of traditions, customs, cultural heritage, etc. It is possible to talk a lot about symbolism in Indian art and here we shall uncover some facts regarding Indian symbols and their meanings. Thus, there is a symbol in Indian culture which is used for luck and auspiciousness – the swastika – which was restored by Hitler and turned into the emblem of evil. However, this is a solar symbol which derives from ’su vasti’ and means ’the essence of everything good’. The use of colors is also symbolic, for instance, such popular saffron color in India is regarded as holy color, the color of renunciation. In some cases the color means authority. Amorous couples on the walls of temples are a part of symbolism in Indian art also.

Symbolism in African Art

When it goes about cultural legacy of worldwide scope African art occupies important place. African art is the culture of the continent and all of it's peoples and civilizations. The visual arts of Africa are rather various, however symbolism in African art has unifying aspects. If to analyze the art it is possible to notice that in African art there is an emphasis made on human figure, sculpture, and multiplicity of meaning. Various forms and symbols stand for various things and meanings, signify society member status, social status.