Artistic Symbols of Easter and Spring

by Miriam Schulman, @schulmanArt

Although the basket has come to be regarded as a symbol of Easter, it is also a symbol of spring. The meaning or symbolism of the Easter basket extends far beyond a simple array of goodies and treats that fill a basket. Since spring is the traditional symbol for new life, rebirth and renewal, the basket has taken on the symbolism of spring as well.

Easter eggs & baby chicks- Eggs and chicks symbolize new life. Eggs have been a symbol of spring since ancient times. An egg also is a symbol of the rock tomb out of which Christ emerged when he arose again. The chick, hatching out of the egg, symbolizes new life or re-birth. 

Apart from being a traditional delicacy in the Easter dinner, Easter lamb is also a part of religious symbolism. It is a prominent Easter symbol in central and eastern European countries. Easter lamb represents Jesus and relates his death to that of the lamb, sacrificed on the first Passover. Lamb has been mentioned in the seventh-century holy book of the Benedictine Monastery. Christians traditionally refer to Jesus as "the Lamb of God". The Easter lamb, draped with the flag of victory, may be seen in pictures and images in the homes of every central and eastern European family, during the holiday season.

Rabbits are often used as a symbol of fertility or rebirth, and have long been associated with spring and Easter as the Easter Bunny. The species' role as a prey animal also lends itself as a symbol of innocence, another Easter connotation. Additionally, rabbits are often used as symbols of playful sexuality, which also relates to the human perception of innocence, as well as its reputation as a prolific breeder.