Gadrooning

Gadrooning is a decorative pattern consisting of a succession of convex, bead-like projections, typically applied as ridges forming rows around a surface. The beads are usually ovoid or spherical in cross-section and may run in straight or curved patterns, often encircling a vessel or edging a panel. The term is derived from the French gadroine or gadroon, and in English is used as both a noun and adjective (gadrooned).

Historically, gadrooning appears in European metalwork from the 17th century and became especially popular in the Baroque and Rococo periods. It was widely used on silverware, including tureens, tankards, candlesticks, and ewers, serving as a luxurious yet repetitive ornament that could be produced by turning, chasing, or casting. The motif reappeared in neoclassical and Victorian revivals and remained common in high-end decorative arts through the 19th and early 20th centuries. In ceramics and porcelain, gadrooning can be formed as raised borders or molded reliefs, and in architecture, it appears as carved or cast decorative mouldings on friezes, chimneys, and balustrades.

Applications and production: In metal, gadrooning is typically produced by turning the work on a lathe to form evenly spaced beads, or by chasing on repoussé pieces for raised relief; in ceramics, the beads are added as moulded reliefs before firing. The pattern’s repetition and reflectivity emphasize light on curved surfaces.