This gallery is unfortunately closed.
More than 500 objects shed a light on heart symbolism in Western culture. They date from the 16th century to the early 20th century. Audio tapes with quotations, poems and musical excerpts provide atmosphere. The collection was compiled by cardiologist Noubar Boyadjian. He donated the collection in 1990 to the Art & History Museum.
Religious objects
The heart has a worldwide symbolism and very quickly became the most prevalent and preferred symbol for love, besides winning an important place in the Christian religion, with the veneration of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary. By far the most numerous, curious and oldest are the religious objects: ex-votos, reliquaries, chrismatory items, oil lamps, holy water stoups, sculptures, paintings, prints and the like.
Symbol for love
Very popular in the secular world since the 17th century has been heart-shaped jewellery, which is found as a symbol of love in country after country, as brooches, bangles, rings, necklaces, etc. It is impossible to list all the other objects in heart form or with a heart motif. Among the commonest, however, are boxes, perfume bottles, flasks, plates, glasses, ink-pots, ashtrays, clasps, cake moulds, furniture, embroidered cushions with pearls, and postcards.
Contact
Linda Wullus
l.wullus@kmkg-mrah.be