Final answer:
In Crivelli's 'Madonna of the Swallow,' books typically symbolize wisdom, learning, and the Scriptures, emphasizing the Madonna's piety and the significance of divine guidance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The books in Carlo Crivelli's painting, 'Madonna of the Swallow,' generally symbolize wisdom and learning. They often refer to the Scriptures, representing the Madonna's devotion and the divine wisdom she symbolizes. The inclusion of books in religious paintings of this era is commonly associated with the importance of the Christian Gospels and the understanding of divine teachings.