Acanthus is a genus of roughly 30 flowering plant species in the family Acanthaceae that grow in tropical and mild temperate climates, with the Mediterranean Basin and Asia having the largest collection of this plant species. The name acanthus came from the Greek word “akanthos” which is commonly featured in Corinthian architecture. acanthus is also known as Bear’s breeches.

What is Symbolized by Acanthus?

Acanthus or Bear’s breeches leaves are thick and spiny with uneven zigzagged edges similar to dandelions or thistles. The leaves of Bear’s breeches were used in architecture since 500 BCE by the Greeks for their representation of rebirth, immortality, and resurrection.

Who First Used Acanthus in Design?

Greeks and Romans have used Acanthus spinosus and Acanthus mollis leaves in columns, friezes, stone carvings, and furniture.

The Greek temple builders were the first to use the design of acanthus in their roof lines, Corinthian and Composite column capitals, and wall friezes. The Romans further detailed the acanthus design by incorporating the curling of its leaves which is commonly integrated into their important buildings. The use of acanthus in design extended to Byzantine, Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Renewal of acanthus design started in the Renaissance period and continues until today.

Is Acanthus Common in Modern Ornamental Designs?

Acanthus plant leaves in modern design were popularized by William Morris in the 1800s. Other notable persons to use acanthus in their designs are Thomas Chippendale, a famous English cabinet maker, and Robert Adam, a distinguished British neoclassical architect. Today, the acanthus plant leaf is seen in moldings, hardware, furniture, lighting, decors, carpets, rugs, mirrors, upholstery designs, and various fixtures.

The design of the acanthus strikes balance between order and nature through the leaf’s curling and organic singular ends. The leaf of acanthus is most commonly used as detailed ornamental furniture designs for the knees of chairs, stems of legs, and friezes of tables