acanthus (motif)

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Scope note
Stylized ornamental motif used especially in architecture and decorative arts, based on a characteristic Mediterranean plant with jagged leaves, Acanthus spinosus. It was first used by the Greeks in the 5th century BCE on temple roof ornaments, on wall friezes, and on the capital of the Corinthian column, such as at Temple of Olympian Zeus in Athens. Later the Romans used the motif in their Composite order, in which the capital of the column is a three-dimensional combination of spirals resembling rams' horns and full-bodied acanthus leaves. The acanthus leaf has been a popular motif in carved furniture decoration since the Renaissance.
acanthus
Accepted term: 29-Apr-2024