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What is the artistic origin of this iconographic expression? What are the meanings and messages of emblems?

The exhibit, Symbols of Grace, will introduce the importance of emblems in religious art. Emblems are an artistic genre that was popular in the 16th and 17th centuries. An emblem is a combination of words and images. The interpretation of emblems requires an intellectual effort. It results in the communication of a moral lesson.

Emblems generally consist of three parts: a pictorial representation; a short, often classical motto; and the explanation or link between the picture and the motto.

Most of the emblems on display have been selected from a book by the Benedictine Joseph Zoller (d. 1750), a monk of the monestary of Sts. Udalricus and Afra, near Augsburg, Germany. Zoller's work, entitled Conceptus Chronographicus de Concepta Sacra Deipara, was published in 1712. It is part of the Marian Library's Rare Book collection. Other emblems in the exhibit are from a second rare book in the Marian Library's holdings — Virgo Maria Mystica Sub Solis Imagine Emblematica Expressa by Augustinian, Johann Leenheer, and printed in 1681.

How to go:

SYMBOLS OF GRACE
Sept. 25 – Nov. 10, 2017
Marian Library Gallery, 7th floor of Roesch Library
Mon.–Fri., 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Open until 7 p.m. on the following Wednesdays: Sept. 20, 27; Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25; Nov. 1

For special arrangements, please call 937-229-4214.

Complimentary visitor parking passes can be obtained at the visitor parking information center.