Griffinology: The Griffin's Place in Myth, History and Art
A L McClanan
List price £30.00
Product Details
- Format:
- Hardback
- ISBN:
- 9781789148466
- Published:
- 13 May 2024
- Publisher:
- Reaktion Books
- Dimensions:
- 272 pages - 234 x 168mm
- Number of Illustrations:
- 110 illustrations, 100 in colour
- Availability:
- Not yet available
Categories:
Griffinology is a fascinating exploration of the mythical creature's many depictions in human culture. Drawing on a wealth of historical and literary sources, this book shows how the griffin has captured the imagination of people for over 5,000 years, representing power, transcendence and even divinity. It explores the history and symbolism of griffins in art, from their appearances in ancient Egyptian magic wands to medieval bestiaries, and from medieval coats of arms to corporate logos today. The use of the griffin as a symbol of power and protection is surveyed throughout history and into modern times. Beautifully illustrated, this book should appeal to all those interested in monsters, magic and the mystical, as well as art and history.
Explores the history and symbolism of griffins across cultures, folklore, magic and art.
Introduction 1 What is a Griffin? Early Examples from Ancient West Asia 2 Golden Griffins of Ancient Greece: From Image to Word 3 Sacred Griffins: Divine Companions, Psychopomps and Retributive Justice 4 Drinking with Griffins 5 The Art of War: Weaponizing Griffins 6 Griffins on the Move: Nomadic Visual Cultures of Central Asia and Europe 7 Guardian Griffins 8 Griffins of Distinction: Byzantine and Sasanian Palace Settings 9 Celestial Griffins: Radiance, Flight and Heavenly Companions 10 Encircling Griffins: Mapping the Influence of a Motif 11 Griffins Marking Death and Transcendence 12 Moralizing Griffins 13 Making Their Mark with Griffins: From Heraldry to Visual Branding 14 Adventures with Griffins 15 Modern Wonders: The Griffin Imagery of Carroll and Rowling Epilogue References Bibliography Acknowledgements Photo Acknowledgements Index
A. L. McClanan is professor of art history at Portland State University, Oregon. Her publications include Representations of Early Byzantine Empresses: Image and Empire.