Patterns & Metaphors
Ornamentation
Template:
Architectural and sculptural ornaments and ornamental geometrical forms while themselves intended as symbolic or actual representations of objects or beings, may present a second level of symbolic meaning, arising from their style of execution, position, associated historical circumstances, or general class. One large category of such decorative ornaments are the floral grotesques which include garlands, rosettes, baskets of flowers, vines, sheaves of grain, clusters of grapes, diverse flowers and fruits, shrubs, creepers, vines, vineyards, trees, orchards, and gardens. Inanimate objects among the grotesques includes vases and jars, goblets and other drinking vessels, weapons, the cross tools and implements. Other ornaments in this category represent natural and mythic animals including dragons, winged horses, phoenixes, griffins (eagle-lions) and the well-known Gothic gargoyles.
Metaphor:
Ornaments presented in imagery may have an explicit symbology unless the context suggests otherwise. An Ionic capital, for example, may symbolize Hellenic civilization. A dream of a water-spouting gargoyle may be said to presage a gift or inheritance. Bound sheaves of grain (as used in the FAO emblem) signify abundance, and secondarily unity, while the radical significance is of a peaceful harvest. An olive leaf wreath (as used in the UNO emblem) signifies peace. Many other grotesques symbolize plenty or prosperity and domestic tranquillity.<
