---
title: "Symbolism — AP Art History Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Symbolism was a late-19th-century movement that rejected naturalism to express ideas and emotions through suggestive imagery. Key for Unit 4 and AP Art History exam analysis."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-art-history/key-terms/symbolism"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Art History"
---

# Symbolism — AP Art History Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

Symbolism was an artistic movement that originated in the late 19th century as a reaction against naturalistic depictions. It sought to represent ideas, emotions, or spiritual concepts through symbols and metaphors rather than direct representation.

## Related Study Guides

- [4.3 Materials, Processes, and Techniques in Later European and American Art](/ap-art-history/unit-4/materials-techniques-later-european-american-art/study-guide/3zXTSNcjTVGF1We1I58j)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Surrealism](/ap-art-history/key-terms/surrealism): Surrealist artists explored dreams and the subconscious mind by creating bizarre imagery that challenged traditional notions of reality.
- Allegory: Allegorical artworks use symbolic figures or objects to represent abstract ideas or moral principles.
- [Iconography](/ap-art-history/key-terms/iconography): Iconography refers to the study or interpretation of symbols and their meanings in art.