AT A GLANCE
In art, the columbine symbolizes the praise of Christ, stands for virtue and holiness and is also used as a funeral plant and symbol of Eros. In some cases it is also an allegorical representation of melancholy.
What is the meaning of the name of Columbine?
The name columbine probably derives from the Latin word aquila here that with Eagle translate. The spur of the columbine has a slight curve. This bears a certain resemblance to the beak of a bird of prey. The name Akelei is already used by Hildegard von Bingen. The famous mystic of the Middle Ages describes in her writings the meaning of columbine as medicinal plant.
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What is the symbolic meaning of the columbine?
The columbine symbolized on many works of art praise of Christ. Especially in the art of the Middle Ages the emerge sorts of columbine with this meaning. It is found, for example, on many depictions of saints. The flower makes it clear that the person portrayed has a special connection to the Holy Spirit and leads a virtuous life. This meaning does not only play a role in pictures. It is also used in literature.
What is the allegorical meaning of columbine?
In some cases, the columbine is also used as a kind of allegorical representation of the melancholy deployed. The columbine's downward-sloping flower head is interpreted as a melancholic attitude. Interpretations like these are not as uncommon in plant assessment as you might think. The name of the weeping willow, for example, is also derived from such an interpretation.
What was the importance of columbine in the Renaissance?
In addition to its religious significance, the columbine was also used as a funeral plantplanted and as a symbol for the Eros used. So the meaning of the flower doesn't just have to refer to restraint and humility. After the Middle Ages ended, the importance of perennials shifted towards these properties.
Tip
Columbine as a cut flower
You can also think of the meaning of columbine as cut flower make use of. The versatile meanings of this flower also give you opportunities to deliver beautiful messages. The Columbine can be used quite well as a cut flower.
