This article explores the symbolism of the square, one of the most common symbols found in history. It examines its history, meaning, and usage in art, architecture, religion, and mythology. The square is believed to have been used for protection due to its four equal sides representing stability and balance. Its meaning varies depending on culture but often represents strength or power, balance or harmony, unity or community, luck or fortune. It has been used by artists for its aesthetic appeal and within architecture where its clean lines create interesting shapes and patterns. In religion it is associated with spiritual protection while in mythology gods are often depicted holding them as a symbol of power.
Symbolism of the Square
Introduction
The square is one of the most common symbols found throughout history, appearing in a variety of forms and contexts across cultures, religions, and mythologies. This article will explore the symbolism behind this powerful shape, examining its history, meaning, and usage throughout art, architecture, religion, and mythology.
History of the Square
The square is an ancient symbol that dates back to prehistory. It has been found in cave drawings from as early as 10 000 BCE and was used by many different cultures including those of Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. The square is believed to have been used as a symbol for protection or security due to its four equal sides which are thought to represent stability and balance. In Ancient Greece it was associated with the goddess Athena who was seen as a protector deity.
Meaning of the Square Symbol in Different Cultures
The meaning behind the square symbol varies depending on which culture it appears in. In some cultures it is seen as a symbol of strength or power while in others it can represent balance or harmony. In Christianity it has been used to represent the four corners of the world or the four evangelists while in Hinduism it has been used to denote purity or perfection. In Native American cultures it has often been seen as a symbol of unity or community while in Chinese culture it is often seen as a sign of luck or fortune.
Use of the Square Symbol in Art
The square has long been used by artists throughout history for its symbolic value but also for its aesthetic appeal. It can be found in various forms such as paintings, sculptures and even ceramics where its symmetrical shape can be used to create interesting patterns and designs. It is also often featured prominently within abstract art where its geometric qualities lend themselves well to creating interesting shapes and forms.
Use of the Square Symbol in Architecture
The use of squares within architecture dates back centuries with many famous buildings featuring prominent squares such as St Peter’s Basilica in Rome which features an iconic piazza at its entrance or Trafalgar Square in London which serves as one of Britain’s most iconic landmarks. Squares are also commonly used within modern architecture where their clean lines can be used to create interesting shapes and patterns that make buildings stand out from their surroundings.
Use of the Square Symbol in Religion and Mythology
The square has long been associated with religion due to its association with protection and security making it a popular choice for religious symbols such as crosses or mandalas which are often associated with spiritual protection or healing energies. In mythology too squares have played an important role with many gods being depicted holding them such as Zeus who held a thunderbolt shaped like a square which represented his power over nature’s forces.
Conclusion
The square is an ancient symbol that has been found throughout history appearing across different cultures, religions, mythologies, artworks, architectures and more where it has taken on different meanings depending on context but always representing protection, strength or harmony amongst other things. Its symmetrical shape makes it aesthetically pleasing while also making it ideal for use within artworks or architecture where its clean lines can be utilized to create interesting patterns and shapes that stand out from their surroundings making them instantly recognizable symbols around the world today.