By the fifth century, the four winged beasts described in Ezekiel and the Book of Revelation were firmly associated with the four writers of the Gospels and thereafter became a standard feature in the decoration of luxury gospel books and their covers ( 17.190.757). Doves crafted out of precious materials could be found suspended above the altar in both Byzantine and Western churches ( 17.190.344). The description in all four Gospels of the Holy Spirit descending on Jesus like a dove from heaven (Matt.
The Bible is also rich in animal symbolism. Artists frequently represented the lively biblical accounts of human interaction with animals, from the days of Creation ( 17.190.156), to Noah’s Ark, to Jonah and the Big Fish ( 77.7), to Daniel in the Den of Lions ( 1987.442.4). The griffin, regarded in antiquity as an attendant of Apollo and a keeper of light, retained its role as a guardian figure for the dead even in later Christian contexts ( 2000.81). Christians adopted the lamb as a symbol of Christ, emphasizing his sacrifice for humanity ( 17.190.38). The lamb served as an important sacrificial animal in ancient Near Eastern religious rites, including those of the Israelites. Animal forms were employed to imbue utilitarian objects with majesty ( 1994.244) and even humor.Īnimals also carried a rich variety of symbolic associations often drawn from the past. Deluxe Bibles and gospel books often make use of animal designs to enliven the sacred text ( 1999.364.2). Early medieval jewelry, for instance, abounds with animal forms elongated and twisted into intricate patterns ( 1992.59.1). Artists readily employed animal motifs, along with foliate designs, as part of their decorative vocabulary. Animals, both real and fantastic, occupied an important place in medieval art and thought.
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