A Closer Look Allegory by Erika Langmuir, softback published by The National Gallery. ISBN 978-1-8570-9485-5, price 7.99 from www.yalebooks.co.uk
The meaning of allegory is one thing in art that often eludes students. This book clarifies its meaning with the aid of paintings in the National Gallery. Theology, the Bible, the cardinal sins and virtues, astrology and ancient myth all play their part in allegory and were used by painters. Understand the meaning behind paintings, the hidden messages. Discover the things that would have been obvious to scholars in their time but are a mystery to modern viewers. This book is a good introduction and is beautifully illustrated.