The Museum Companion unravels the legends behind many of the most popular and frequently painted figures and explains their symbolism, which is all too often overlooked or misunderstood. What is the Judgment of Paris? Why does St. Catherine have a wheel by her side, and St. Jerome a lion? Who was crucified upside down?The Museum Companion is divided into two parts: a Classical section, detailing the characters from the myths and histories of ancient Greece and Rome, and a Biblical and religious section, describing the figures from the Old and New Testaments as well as later saints. The text supplies the relevant background to the character, lists some of the most famous paintings that depict him or her, and describes the events shown in the accompanying illustration. Other facts about the figure depicted and the painting - such as why that particular subject was in vogue - are also included, as are discussions of other treatments of the same subject matter.Drawing upon art from the last 800 years, with descriptions of more than 150 characters commonly represented in murals and on canvas. The Museum Companion is a beautifully illustrated guide to many of the most important subjects in painting. It will be indispensable to all those seeking to enhance their understanding and enjoyment of Western art. Read Less