Ornamental form language

Curves and repeated details enrich the form.

Visual traits

• Repeated ornament
• Detailed edging

Expected changes

• Detail and repetition are more likely to increase
• Edges and interiors are more likely to be ornamented

Definition

Builds rich form with repeated lines, leaflike curves, and decorated edges. Particular era, culture, subject, and representational level are separate choices.

In more detail

It adds repetition and detail around or within a primary shape. Color, material feel, and specific ornamental style can be adjusted separately.

Includes

• Forms enriched by repeated ornament

Excludes

• A particular historic style or culture
• A mere frame or pattern
• Representational level or medium

What this does not imply

• A particular historic style, culture, or subject
• A particular color or material
• Representational level

Variability

Ornament density can vary while keeping the primary form readable.

Usage

• Specify only form ornamentation
• Specify era and culture separately

Distinguish similar expressions

• Distinguish it from a particular historic style

Typical uses

• Add richness to form
• Create repetition at edges or interiors

Possible failure modes

• Detail is absent and form becomes plain
• Too much ornament obscures the primary form