The heart symbol was used to represent foliage until 1250 when it was first used to denote love

The Heart Symbol: From Foliage to Love

The heart symbol - a universally recognized emblem of love and affection - has a fascinating origin. Contrary to popular belief, it was not always associated with matters of the heart. In fact, until around 1250, the heart symbol was primarily used to represent foliage and plants. It wasn’t until this time that its meaning transformed, and it became closely associated with love.

To understand the evolution of the heart symbol, we must delve into its history. Ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians and Greeks, believed that the human heart was the center of all emotions and the seat of the soul. However, the anatomical representation of the heart bore little resemblance to the distinctive shape we recognize today.

The transformation of the heart symbol can be attributed to a combination of cultural, artistic, and religious influences. During the Middle Ages, a surge of religious artwork emerged, depicting Christian motifs such as the Sacred Heart of Jesus. These representations showcased a heart surrounded by thorns, symbolizing both the crucifixion and divine love.

Additionally, during the same period, the heart started gaining symbolic significance in secular contexts. Courting rituals and literature of the time began to associate this organ with romantic love, desire, and longing. Gradually, this symbolism intertwined with the heart’s religious connotations, leading to the emergence of the heart symbol as a representation of love and affection.

It is important to note that the heart symbol did not adopt its iconic and stylized form until the fifteenth century. Artists and artisans began depicting the heart with a cleft at the base, creating the familiar shape that has endured through the centuries. This stylization further cemented the association between the symbol and matters of the heart.

The heart symbol’s transformation from foliage to love has since captivated the imagination of people worldwide. Today, it remains one of the most recognizable symbols globally, used to convey love, affection, and compassion.

In conclusion, the heart symbol’s journey from representing foliage to denoting love is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of symbols and their meanings. The fusion of religious, artistic, and cultural influences throughout history played a significant role in shaping the heart symbol as we know it today. So the next time you encounter a heart symbol, cherish its rich history and the boundless emotions it represents.

Source:

• Art & Object - History of the Heart Shape