1. Gryllus | This symbol depicts a grotesque, comical figure with body parts arranged in an unnatural manner. During the Middle Ages, the Gryllus was a symbol of the irrational nature of man. |
2. Vesica Piscis | An almond-shaped figure formed by overlapping circles, often containing images of important Christian figures or scenes. This symbol, while common in medieval art, is not widely recognized today. |
3. Ouroboros | An ancient symbol of a snake or a dragon swallowing its own tail, illustrating cyclicality and the eternal return. Even if it’s origin dates back much earlier, it was also used during Middle Ages. |
4. Mandorla | This almond-shaped aureole frequently surrounds figures of Christ and the Virgin Mary in Christian art. It represents the heavens and the spiritual realm beyond human comprehension. |
5. Pelican in her Piety | The symbol of a mother pelican wounding her breast to feed her young from her own blood was used as representation of Christ’s sacrifice. |
6. Yonic Symbols | These symbols, representing the feminine, can be found in many architectural and artistic contexts but are often overlooked due to their subtle nature. |
7. Three hares motif | This motif represents the trinity, very important in Christian beliefs, but isn’t so widely known today. |
8. The Green Man | Usually a face surrounded by leaves and vines, represented rebirth and the cycle of growth each spring. This visual symbol is particularly found in medieval architecture. |
9. Catherine Wheel | An emblem of St. Catherine and her martyrdom, this wheel is a rarely recognized symbol today outside of religious studies. |
10. Puzzle jug/pot | Though not a symbol in the traditional sense, these objects – often containing cryptic or symbolic imagery and text – served as social icebreakers in Middle Ages. |