Symbols of Birds in Christian Art
What was once well-known during medieval and Renaissance times – such as the meaning of symbols like the stork, goldfinch, peacock, eagle, sparrow, and dove – is less well-known today but can be learned and enjoyed in order to more thoroughly appreciate paintings.
Religious instruction can be gained from common elements of life like birds found in paintings.
Much Western art surviving since the fall of the Roman Empire is Christian art. The Western Roman Empire's religious hierarchy, what is today the Catholic Church, was a main source of funding and support for art. The artwork featured Christian themes like events in Jesus’ life, the sacraments, Biblical stories, Christian teachings, and the Virgin Mary. People of the times of early Christian art were well-versed in these featured scenes and the many symbols used to express their meaning. With the passage of time the meaning of the symbols has become obscured.
For example, specific birds have significant meaning in early Christian art. Birds are unique among animals for their wings that enable them to rise above the ground and to fly quickly through the air. Christ's teachings focus on the spiritual side of man's nature; humans' salvation or possible spiritual doom is the great issue of our existence. If there is life after death, clearly the agent or impetus of important human activities – the soul – must be capable of an existence separate from the human or mortal body. Birds are a winged symbol of these souls.
Birds also have very quick, sharp sight. An eagle or a hawk as he circles about, high in the air, can observe small objects and prey on the ground far below. A bird's sight and hearing must be very keen to allow it to fly safely through the woods in and out among the branches. And the catchy songs of some birds and the bright colors of others bring delight to our lives.
In Christian art, what do the following birds usually symbolize?
1. Stork
Many birds, such as the stork, announce the coming of spring and so are symbols of the Annunciation. As such, storks also represent Mary’s qualities of piety and chastity. Other sources claim the stork represents happiness and joy since the bird’s feeding on snakes can be viewed as a positive force that helps eradicate our evil instincts.
2. Goldfinch
Because they eat thistles and thorns, goldfinches are a symbol of Christ’s Passion. Raphael’s painting, “Madonna of the Goldfinch,” clearly shows young Jesus lovingly stroking a goldfinch.
3. Peacock
The peacock has several meanings. Because of a legend that its flesh does not decay, the peacock represents immortality and resurrection. Because of the “eyes” in its tail, it symbolizes the Church. Because of its habit of strutting, it is said to stand for vanity and pride. The peacock is seen here in Fra Filippo Lippi’s “Adoration of the Magi.”
4. Eagle
This bird is a symbol of Christ and His Divine nature. Because of the eagle’s powerful strength and its penetrating sight – as it soars above the earth observing even the smallest objects below – it may be a symbol of the Lord's omniscience and ever-watchful care.
5. Sparrow
The sparrow symbolizes God’s concern for the most insignificant living things. In the same way God loves and watches over the sparrow, he knows each person is unique and to be treasured and consequently surely watches over humans.
6. Dove
The dove with its gentle loving nature represents the presence of the Holy Spirit and the virtues of peace, meekness, and purity. It is among birds what the lamb is among animals. This bird is reminiscent of Noah’s dove that brought back the olive branch to show the waters had receded and God had made his peace with humanity.
Source:
Bailey, Colin J. The Art Quiz Book: 2000+ Questions on Painters and Paintings. Station Press: Scotland, 1995.
