The pelican was seen as a symbol of immortality and resurrection. In the medieval Bestiary, it is described as pecking at its own breast to feed its young with his own blood, reviving them from death. Due to this, it is often used in religious iconography to represent the selflessness of Christ.
2. Self-sacrifice and Devotion
The pelican was seen as the symbol of self-sacrifice and devotion, even to the point of self-annihilation. In medieval and Renaissance art, the pelican is often shown as feeding its young from its own blood as an allegory for Christ's sacrifice for humanity.
3. Charity and Compassion
The pelican was used to represent charity and compassion, especially towards the poor and needy. In the medieval Bestiary, it was described as sharing its food with the weak and elderly, who could not find food on their own.
4. Hope
The pelican is associated with hope, due to its ability to restore life to its young through self-sacrifice. This is why the pelican is often seen in religious art and iconography as a symbol of hope and renewal.