The semiotic analysis of heraldry and figures in medieval ship art from a graphic design perspective

The Medieval period represents a significant phase in the history of seafaring. Between the 5th and 15th centuries, the figures and embellishments on ships reflected the cultural, religious, and commercial contexts of their owners, standing out as expressions of maritime practice and ship design. The decorations on ships often mirrored the cultural diversity and interactions of that era. While it is known that seafaring played an effective role in trade and warfare, it is also understood that ships transcended being mere transportation vehicles, becoming art objects that reflected the social status and cultural identity of their owners. This thesis focuses on the semiotic evaluation of how the symbolic, formal, and communicative values of ships and their users formed a brand value used as a status element. Using a qualitative research method, a literature review is conducted and discussed, contributing to the literature by examining it within a historical context.