Pictures, images, and objects in paintings have meaning that may be hidden due to a loss of knowledge or the passage of time but can be important to viewers.
Many everyday objects, like candles or mirrors, have a hidden meaning when included in artwork. Certainly reducing a painting to a mere discussion of the meaning of its symbols will not do it justice nor come close to fully understanding the artist’s intent. Having, however, an understanding of the typical meanings of symbols in art can only deepen our appreciation of the work.
