Design History: Neoclassical
Look! A normal topic!
If you’ve ever bought something for a cat, you know that they’re aways more interested in the box than what’s inside. I behaved similarly this past week, when my dear friend Rachel gave me a gift wrapped in neoclassical themed wrapping paper. I mean, look at it:
What an abject delight! This 5-star wrap job pleased me to no end and also reminded me that we haven’t done a Design History installment in months. So, let’s talk about the neoclassical design motif. Briefly, because I’m tired.
In architecture and design, “neoclassical” references the mid-18th century movement that hearkened back to ancient Greece and Rome. Columns, mythological beasts, dolphins (yes, specifically dolphins), natural elements (leaves, flowers, fruit), and symmetry are all hallmarks of the style. A person in toga? Neoclassical. A griffin? Neoclassical. Ivy? Neoclassical Gargoyle? Neo….just kidding, Gothic! Duh.
When spotting neoclassical architecture, look out for a cornice, a decorative moulding jutting out over the face of a wall or from the roof of a building. Massive, arched Palladian windows are another neoclassical expression. While undeniably fussy, the style is guided by an airy sense of whimsical light and nature. The White House is a good example of neoclassical architecture.
Want more design history? Here are the newsletters on Beaux-Arts, Art Deco, and Victorian Renaissance Revival.
Until next week,
Elizabeth