The Language of Flowers: Symbols And Myths

by Marina Heilmeyer

The author outlines the mythology of flowers in the ancient and early Christian worlds and explains their special significance for love and marriage, in customs and festivals and the use of flowers as status symbols, as symbols of the seasons of the year or as metaphors of human qualities. Thirty-five beautiful depictions of flowers taken from the Renaissance and Baroque periods are reproduced as full-page illustrations accompanied by descriptive texts which analyse their symbolism, mythological importance, use and meaning in our present times.

Genres: Nonfiction, Gardening, Reference, Art, Plants

96 pages, Hardcover

First published April 1, 2001

Reviews

[Kira ♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

I will send everybody in my life hidden messages with flowers. I will be unstoppable!

[Eva · Rating 2 out of 5]

Great and beautiful photographs of flower paintings, but all the language and myth of over 30 flowers can be summed up to "represents the Virgin Mary"

[Katherine Van Halst · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great quick-reference with breathtaking art. It would be worthwhile to have on hand to reference when looking at art or choosing flowers for a specific occasion.

[Joel · Rating 2 out of 5]

It's ok, it's just a quick synopsis on each featured flower. The information is light and straightforward which is ok.

[Ben’s Book Nook ☭ · Rating 4 out of 5]

süßes kleines büchlein mit kurzen erklärungen und absolut wunderschönen illustrationen !!

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful book with exquisite pictures on the "language" of flowers and their meaning over the eons. Lots of interesting tidbits for the flower lover: "Mallows" (hollyhocks) are among the oldest cultivated plants known to humans and symbolizes forgiveness. "Lily of the Valley" contains digitalis glycosides-used to treat heart complaints (means fortunate in love). Saffron comes from "Crocuses" which symbolizes heavenly bliss & resurrection. "Cornflower" stands for loyalty and King Tutankhamen was found with a wreath of blue cornflowers around his neck. Interesting read.

[Bethany · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've always been fascinated with the language of flowers and discovering the meaning of different flowers. This book helped with that. I think my next one will be about creating bouquets that mean certain things. If I can find one that puts the flowers together and not just give the symbolism behind them.

[Melissa Marie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is not my favorite book on the topic but provides useful information on some of my favorite flowers including mythology and stories about how the flowers were used. I would not purchase this book, but it is worth looking over if this theme is of interest to you.

[Sh&ra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful and fun to read. I love that the author covers history, religion, and even mythology to give you a well-rounded biography of each flower. The paintings the author chose for the bio pages are stunning. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book!

[Juli Anna · Rating 3 out of 5]

One of many books on this topic, and not my favorite. But the classic 17th-century Dutch still lives give it a little oomph.

[Margie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting but not the greatest I've ever read

[Baroness · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful book.

[Sophia · Rating 2 out of 5]

Wanted it to be good for all these pages

[Dori · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a beautiful book. I have long been a fan of any book on the language of flowers. This book has beautiful photos and lots of imformation!

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

The lovely book, The Language of Flowers Symbols and Myths” was written by Marina Heilmeyer and published in 2001. It gives the meaning of flowers in a simple yet beautifully illustrated format with small scientific detailed drawing, lovely paintings and bountiful information. The combination was wonderful to experience and enjoy. From a flowers names aguilegia to oranges and lemons, the format of this book is a two page layout per plant identified, explained and illustrated. There is a historical introduction that is enhanced by the famous pieces of art that are displayed and explained in meaning and feeling. I enjoyed this book and learned a great deal about the symbolization and meaning of flowers.

[Christina Corzine · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wish it had been a 'bit' more in depth, but nice introduction for those who don't know. Also it favors the Greek symbolism more than other cultures or time periods, so it's a bit one sided. Beautiful still lifes though.

[Alex Kartelias · Rating 3 out of 5]

Decided to read this because I could never know which flowers were which when they were mentioned by Shakespeare, John Keats and other poets. Plus I wanted to incorporate more of nature into my poetry and this book gave me all sorts of ideas. Interesting book.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Most wonderful for the reproductions of masterpiece artworks which accompany the text.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful illustrations and interesting facts on flowers. The perfect gift for a gardener!