Iconography is the study of symbols, themes, and motifs used in visual arts, such as painting, sculpture, and architecture. It is concerned with the interpretation and meaning of the symbols and imagery used in art, and how these symbols and imagery relate to the cultural and historical context in which the art was produced.
Iconography can be used to analyze and interpret a wide range of visual arts, including paintings, sculptures, murals, and other works of art. It is often used to understand the symbolism and meaning behind specific works of art, as well as to explore the ways in which different cultures and societies have used visual art to express ideas, values, and beliefs.
In addition to the study of individual works of art, iconography also involves the study of broader themes and motifs that appear across different works of art and cultures. For example, an art historian might study the iconography of the Virgin Mary in Western art, examining the different ways in which the Virgin Mary has been represented and the meanings associated with those representations.