Human ages and development

The biological age of symbolic human figures may be indicated approximately or directly. There may also be an indirect representation of a particular stage of physical development, as for example by social role, e.g. an Amerindian brave.

The developmental age range may include such categories as pre-school, pre-adolescent, adolescent, young adult, mature, advanced mature and senescent. Symbolic figures are often polarized into youth and maiden on the one hand and old man and old lady on the other. The former pair signify vigour, power and hopefulness; the latter, caution, prudence of wisdom, and realism.

LK F0 M Human ages and development