zoomorphism

Zoomorphism is the attribution of animal form, traits, or behavior to non-animal entities, or the depiction of beings—often deities, heroes, or humans—in animal shape. The term derives from Greek zoōn (animal) and morphē (form). It is related to, but distinct from, anthropomorphism, which projects human form or characteristics onto non-human entities.

In ancient art and religion, zoomorphism appears when gods or spirits are depicted as animals or with animal features. In ancient Egypt, Anubis is shown as a jackal or with a jackal-headed statue; Thoth as an ibis; Sobek as a crocodile. In Hinduism, deities may appear with animal heads or forms, such as Ganesha (elephant-headed) and Narasimha (man-lion), and the boar Varaha. In classical myth, gods and heroes are linked to animals through symbols or metamorphosis, like Zeus with the eagle or Artemis with the deer.

In visual art and literature, zoomorphic imagery uses animal forms to convey moral, cultural, or symbolic meanings—strength, cunning, ferocity. It appears in totemic art, myth cycles, and fables. Sometimes it overlaps with shapeshifting and mythic metamorphosis.

In modern branding and design, zoomorphic logos or product mascots use animal shapes to convey qualities. In contemporary art and media, animal forms can critique culture or evoke mythic resonance.