Final answer:
The four evangelists are depicted as animals in Christian iconography to convey the distinct aspects of Christ each gospel reflects: Matthew as a man or angel, Mark as a lion, Luke as an ox, and John as an eagle.
Step-by-step explanation:
The four evangelists are depicted as animals in Christian iconography due to associations made early in Christian tradition, particularly through the visions of the prophet Ezekiel and the Book of Revelation. These symbols are deeply rooted in the religious and artistic culture of Christianity, aiming to convey the distinct aspects of Christ's character that each of the gospels reflects. The symbolism associated with each evangelist is as follows: Matthew is represented by a winged man or angel, highlighting the human aspect of Christ; Mark is symbolized by a lion, symbolizing Christ's resurrection and royal dignity; Luke is depicted as an ox or calf, representing sacrifice; and John is portrayed as an eagle, signifying the height he reaches in his gospel with his theological insights. These symbols are recurrent throughout Christian art and iconography, appearing in various media such as sculpture, painting, and illuminated manuscripts. They not only illustrate the distinctive contributions of each of the four gospel writers but also reflect a broader theme in religious art where animals serve as messengers and bearers of divine truths, echoing roles as seen in other religious narratives such as Noah's ark.