Ananda K. Coomaraswamy and Interpretation of Symbols

In this article,I will give an overview of A.K. Coomaraswamy’s approach to the interpretation of symbols in traditional art. Developing my discussion around a close reading of his essay “The Interpretation of Symbols” whilst also drawing on his other essays on traditional art, I will attempt to answer three questions: What is Coomaraswamy’s understanding of the role of symbols in traditional art? How does he articulate this understanding? And, how does he approach traditional symbolism compare with other traditionalists’ methods such as those of Rene Guenon and Martin Lings? Based on these questions and after discussing the differentiating aspects of outward and inward features of traditional art, I will differentiate between artistic forms and permanent archetypes, and will study the relations between symbolism in art and symbolism in Revelation and nature.