Palmette ornaments Palmette ornaments

There are palmette ornaments in the white hall and throughout the house.

The palmette resembles the fan-shaped leaves of a palm tree. In general, the upper part of the motif consists of five or more leaves or petals. The fanning moves upward in a rhythmic pattern from a single, almost triangular base. The palmette has a long history, most likely originating in ancient Egypt and later being developed through art in Europe, especially in Greece. It is known in most artistic media, but primarily as architectural ornamentation, or a decorative furniture element as can be seen here. Whether carved or painted, it is a very common construction feature of gravestone friezes, columns, cornices, and ceilings.