Catholica

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This book offers a curated selection of Catholic art and artifacts, elucidating the iconography and mystic power of the faith's ritual objects. It identifies and examines a wealth of often-hidden symbols, creating a catalogue of key visual symbols for interpreting Catholic visual and material culture. Organized into three parts—Tenet, Locus, and Spiritus—each containing three themed chapters, the first part introduces the core elements of the faith, explaining the symbolism in the artistic representations of the holy family, apostles, saints, and scriptural stories. The second part focuses on places of worship, detailing the components of cathedrals and showcasing evocative images of roadside shrines. The third part delves into celebrations and traditions, highlighting personal devotional tools and jewelry. Each of the nine themed chapters features illustrated introductory text followed by a spread-by-spread presentation of key figures, stories, and iconography. Detailed examinations of paintings and artifacts reveal their symbolism and narratives. As readers progress, they will gain an understanding of the Catholic visual code, including symbols that define Catholic practice, attributes of saints, and cathedral parts, enabling them to interpret Catholic imagery and objects in various contexts while grasping the tenets, sites, and rituals of the faith.