In the arts iconography refers to any image which has specific symbolism that suggests a deeper meaning or even a story. All examples of iconography are symbols, but not all symbols are examples of iconography. A checkered flag that finishes a race is symbolic but it holds no more meaning than that the race has been won. On the other hand, an image of Mickey Mouse brings to mind not only the adventures of the character, but is also the logo for the Disney corporation.
It is also important to know that images may have iconographical meaning that is not recognized by the participant. The Statue of Liberty is an example of iconography that has a deeper meaning for Americans, but it also has a connection to a famous painting by Eugene Delacroix called
Liberty Leading Her People.
Other examples include: The Seven Joys of the Virgin by Hans Memling and Watson and the Shark by John Singleton Copley.