Metaphorical Meanings of the Horse Symbol in Saudi Art: Mohammed Sharahili As A Model

Abstract

This study tackles the subject of uncovering the concept of the metaphorical meaning by analysing the symbol of horses in Saudi plastic art, specifically in the works of the Saudi artist Muhammad Sharahili as a model. The study aims to explain the concept of metaphorical meanings by unravelling the representation of the horses' symbol in Saudi plastic art. The research adopts the descriptive-analytical method to reveal this metaphorical meaning by analysing five works of the artist Sharahili to find out the hidden meaning of the horses' symbol and the extent of its representation in Saudi art. Among the outcomes of this study are the following:

-The symbol of horses is characterised by containing a set of meanings related to the Saudi society and the Arabian environment.

-Understanding the metaphorical meaning of the symbol contributes to knowing the extent of the artist's relation to his/her identity, environment and culture. Besides, the symbol of horses is one of the most represented symbols in the works of Saudi plastic artists.

Therefore, the study recommends the necessity of delving deeper into the study of metaphorical meanings underlying the horse symbol, in addition to conducting studies and research similar to the current study in order to discover the metaphorical meanings of symbols in plastic arts.