I've no idea how to ask the question properly!
Basically, when I look at old art portraits of prominent people like Elizabeth I, or other old monarchs from hundreds of years ago, or paintings of other significant people, anything in this vein, I always notice things like what they're holding in their hand. I see weird things in the background. I see they have funny, random things draped onto their clothing or embroidered into the dress or cloak. A cup tipped over. Eyes and ears stitched into the fabric (yes really!) Etc etc.
I've always wanted to know the Why's and the What on Earth's for the really surreal objects.
Anyway, is there somekind of glossery index type explanation book for what these things mean in old paintings.
As you can tell, art is something I have absolutely no idea about. I have zero level of knowledge. I couldn't tell you what a renaissance painting means or a classic painting! But I could look at old paintings for hours. I'll look at portraits of kings and queens on Wiki, and keep following the links to older monarchs of the family tree and I love seeing the difference in styles of other european countries shown in clothing or whatever it is.
So yes, where can I find a brilliant book explaining all of this?
Hope you know what I mean.