Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
Indexical Sign
This kind of visual sign points to its signified object indirectly, or “indexes” it—for
example, a nest indexes a bird.
Symbol
A representational or abstract image whose form is physically unrelated to its signified
object or idea is a symbol; it derives its power from the arbitrary agreement of the culture that uses
the symbol. A dove, for example, is a symbol of peace in Western culture. The context in which a
symbol appears might alter its symbolic meaning: consider the difference in meaning between the
same symbol element in these three environments.
Supersign
This is a complex sign that superimposes more than one sign (and often more than one
type of sign) in a single, gestalt combination in which all the signs included are visible and access-
ible immediately; a logo is a good example. A supersign might involve an icon, symbol, index,
word, and representation in any combination. The more complicated the supersign, the less effect-
