Ikonological

Ikonological refers to a method of art historical interpretation that focuses on the study of icons and symbols within an artwork. It is a branch of iconography, which identifies and classifies the subject matter of images. Ikonology, however, goes deeper, seeking to understand the meaning and significance of these symbols within their broader cultural, historical, and philosophical context.

Developed by Erwin Panofsky, ikonology posits that art works are not merely visual representations but contain layers of meaning that can be deciphered through careful analysis. Panofsky proposed a three-level approach: the pre-ikonographical description, which identifies the basic subject matter; the ikonographical analysis, which identifies conventional themes and symbols; and the ikonological interpretation, which uncovers the intrinsic meaning or content of the work by relating it to the underlying worldview of its creator and the society in which it was produced.

This approach requires an understanding of the historical period, the artist's intentions, and the prevailing intellectual currents. It treats art as a primary source for understanding the culture from which it emerged, moving beyond purely aesthetic considerations to explore the ideological and psychological dimensions of art. Ikonology is thus concerned with the "why" behind the imagery, seeking to reveal the fundamental cultural and intellectual tendencies that shape artistic expression.