Dogtooth
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| This is the double piscina in the chancel of the Church of St Kyneburgha, Castor. It is in an elaborate Early English style with dogtooth decoration. |
Dogtooth (or dogtooth pattern) is a term used to describe a style of architectural ornamentation. The term is said to originate from the pattern’s resemblance to the dog-tooth violet, although the pattern also tends to have the rough appearance of a projecting tooth.
Dogtooth is made up of a series of four-cornered stars or leaves placed diagonally to each other. These segments radiate from a central point to form a pyramid.
Dogtooth ornamentation can be found in buildings that date back to before the 12th century. It became a more commonly used form of decoration in early English Gothic architecture.
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