Running dog pattern
The running dog pattern - sometimes simply referred to as running dog - was also known as Vitruvian scroll, Vitruvian wave and wave scroll. It is a repeating wave-like pattern that also looks like a series of scrolls if viewed from the end and joined together.
Running dog was often used in friezes, mouldings and other types of architectural borders. It was carved or painted onto the surface and appeared as the central element of a classical band or entablature.
The style can be found in the Roman Composite Classical order that appeared in the fifth century BC. It also appeared in Greek and Roman revival architecture.
The origin of the name running dog is unknown. However, the term is also frequently used for the same type of pattern (which can look like a series of dogs running) on certain ancient Persian carpets.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
Government approach could undermine delivery and regeneration.
World's first mass timber data centre.
The overlooked environmental aspect of data centre development.
Introduction to radon awareness
New technical information sheet published by CIOB.
Updated supplier guide can help electrical contractors engage with NHP.
CIAT confirm the winners of the 2026 architectural technology awards.
Government launches a one stop shop for flood preparedness.
Sir Edwin Lutyens: Britain's greatest architect? Book review.
CIOB publishes free template to help assess and manage risks.
ECA's reflections on Party Conference season
Burnham wants to be confident of winning before asking for a fresh mandate.
New Chief Construction and Scientific Adviser
Sergio Cavalaro, Professor of Infrastructure Systems at Loughborough University.
Building safety levy for England
CIAT publish estimator tool for members.
Water sector faces a growing crisis that could slow the delivery of vital infrastructure.