SAINTANDREWSCHOOL

The Iconography of Icons

1. Recognizability of SubjectIcon artists work hard to make individuals recognizable. Many saints have standardized features, such as St. Peter, who is always depicted with a short white beard and curly white hair. All are identified by inscriptions.

2. SymbolismSymbols are often included to further identify figures. Certain colors are associated with certain individuals, such as blue for Mary's robe. Particular numbers, like twelve for the apostles, renders a group easily identifiable. And objects associated with saints, called "attributes" help to make meaning clear; Saint Catherine's wheel, a symbol of her martyrdom, allows easy recognition. (8)

3Hhighlight important parts of his/her history, activities, etc., which allows you to recognize that person's image. Modern examples could include emblems, logos (like the computer apple), family crests. 

The Style of Icons--How do Icons Look?

1. Simple, Clear and Static - Frequently icons depict single figures, presented in a non-narrative mode. Icon images are easily readable. The figures are often surrounded by open space with no overlapping, so that you can see all of a figure. They are usually presented frontally, with a minimum of background.

2. Identifiable Inscriptions naming the figure accompany each image so that there is no confusion. Inscriptions are placed beside the head and are clearly legible.

3. Abstract Icons are usually presented in an abstract style--certain elements are pulled out and made salient. The faces and bodies are rather flat and clearly separated by outlines. If there is an attribute, or a particular facial feature or hairstyle, it will be emphasized and made prominent.

4. IntenseOften deep, gem-like colors are used. Most frequently, the figures or scenes are set against a gold background, which serves to take the image out of any recognizable space and time, and at the same time intensifies the colors. The golden glow is one of the preeminent impressions of the icon.