Mythical Winged Creatures: A brief history of their symbolism in art and mythology
We have a long-standing love affair with wings, but where does it come from? It seems we’re keen to put wings on anything and everything: humans, horses, elephants, reptiles, lions… especially lions. Look back through the history of art and mythology and you’ll see we’ve been at it for millennia. But what’s at the root of this obsession with winged creatures, beasts and beings?
The origins of the halo in art
Halo, glory, nimbus, gloriole – whatever you choose to call it, this glowing disc of light has become a ubiquitous visual symbol of spiritual goodness. But what’s the origin of the halo in art, and why its enduring appeal?