Last edited 05 Nov 2020

Grotesque

Grotesque1.jpg

In architecture, a grotesque, also known as a chimera, or boss, is a fantastical or mythical figure used for ornamental purposes. Regional variations of the term include 'hunky punk' and 'onigawara'.

In common parlance, they are referred to as gargoyles, although the strict architectural usage of that term refers to those features that also serve as a waterspout.

The word is derived from grotteschi, the Italian term for the Roman grottoes that contained such decorations. They were revived as an ornamental feature in the Renaissance and became popular throughout Europe, being used most frequently in the decoration of frescoes.

Grotesque2.jpg

Grotesque3.jpg

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki

Designing Buildings Anywhere

Get the Firefox add-on to access 20,000 definitions direct from any website

Find out more Accept cookies and
don't show me this again