QUESTION André Leonardo Vieira, Joinville, SC
There are a few theories, but none are certain. Some place the origin in ancient Egypt, others before that, in cave paintings, and others further ahead, in the Middle Ages. The fact is that the symbol (or something similar to it) has had several formats throughout history, and has already represented immortality, courage, vitality, and of course, love. Check out some versions of the figure and their meanings.
1250 BC: HIEROGLYPHS
For the Egyptians, the organ, represented by the ib symbol in their sacred script, was the source of all emotions. Because of its heart-like shape, the peach was also associated with fertility and life.
+ What did the hieroglyphs of ancient Egypt mean?
+ How did the punctuation marks come about?
5th CENTURY BC: IVY LEAF
According to some studies, the ivy leaf (plant of the genus Hedera), a symbol of immortality and power for the ancient Greeks, gave rise to the symbol we know today.
15TH CENTURY: LOVE.ICON
In the Middle Ages, the icon began to appear in religious images, such as Christ’s love for humanity. It also appears in books and artwork that celebrated the passion between men and women.
+ How were the years counted before Christ?
+ How did the decks of cards come about?
15TH AND 16TH CENTURIES: DECK
In the French version of the game, the suit of hearts symbolized the clergy. The suits of clubs, diamonds and spades symbolized peasants, merchants and nobility, respectively.
SOURCES Article heart symbolby Paulo R. Prates, cardiovascular surgeon at the Institute of Cardiology of Rio Grande do Sul