What were the visual symbols or icons of the Saints?

The Saints of Christianity are often associated with specific visual symbols or icons that represent their lives, martyrdoms, or significant attributes. Here are some of the most recognizable visual symbols of several prominent Saints:

1. St. Peter:
   • Visual Symbol: Keys (representing the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven, a symbol of his authority)
   • Additional Symbol: A rooster (reminding of his denial of Jesus)
2. St. Paul:
   • Visual Symbol: Sword (reflecting his martyrdom by beheading)
3. St. Andrew:
   • Visual Symbol: Cross saltire (an X-shaped cross, representing the manner of his crucifixion)
4. St. James the Greater:
   • Visual Symbol: Scallop shell (often worn by pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago)
5. St. John:
   • Visual Symbol: Eagle (reflecting the soaring spiritual heights of his Gospel)
6. St. Thomas:
   • Visual Symbol: Carpenter's square (symbolic of his profession as a carpenter)
7. St. Matthew:
   • Visual Symbol: Winged man or angel (representing his Gospel's emphasis on the humanity of Jesus)
8. St. Luke:
   • Visual Symbol: Ox or bull (symbolizing sacrifice and service, as seen in his Gospel)
9. St. John the Baptist:
   • Visual Symbol: Lamb (representing his declaration of Jesus as the "Lamb of God")
   • Additional symbols: Usually depicted as an emaciated prophet dressed in animal skins and shown carrying a long cross, a lamb, and a parchment scroll inscribed with the letters, “Ecce Homo”(it means “behold the man” and refers to Christ crowned with thorns).
10. St. Anthony of Padova:
    • Visual Symbol: Lily and the child Jesus (depicting a vision he had)
11. St. Christopher:
    • Visual Symbol: Carrying the Christ Child across a river
12. St. Patrick:
    • Visual Symbol: Shamrock (used to explain the Holy Trinity)
13. St. George:
    • Visual Symbol: Slaying a dragon
14. St. Valentine:
    • Visual Symbol: Hearts, doves, roses (symbols of love and affection)

These visual symbols play a crucial role in Christian iconography, helping to identify and venerate the Saints in various forms of religious art, statuary, and depictions. They serve as a powerful means of connecting with the lives and teachings of these revered figures.