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Acanthus leaf and flowers - drawing
Botanical drawing by Hans Simon Holtzbecker in the Gottorfer Codex

Acanthus is a beautiful and unique plant that is often used in gardens and landscaping. It is a perennial herb that has a long history of being used in the decorative arts.

Acanthus leaf capital
Corinthian Capital with acanthus leaves

Acanthus leaves are used as a type of ornamental decoration that is common in architecture and decorative arts. It is characterised by its leaf-like shape, which is often used to adorn the capitals of columns, pilasters, and other architectural elements. The acanthus leaf is a classic symbol of the Mediterranean region and is often used to evoke a sense of antiquity and timelessness in a design.

Acanthus leaf marquetry detail
Acanthus scroll in boxwood marquetry – Mayhew and Ince

The acanthus leaf is believed to have originated in Ancient Greece, where it was used to decorate the capitals of columns in temples and other public buildings. It was also used to decorate the pediments of temples, and the leaves were often carved in marble or stone. Acanthus ornament was popular in the Roman Empire and has continued as an important detail across all spheres of the decorative arts. Acanthus ornament can also be used to adorn furniture, moldings, and other decorative elements, and it is synonymous with classical beauty.

Alexis_Peyrotte_-Acanthus_Leaf_Design-_Google_Art_Project