Motivträger

Motivträger, literally “motif carrier,” is a German term used to describe the object or surface that bears a motif, pattern, or subject. The term appears in art history, conservation, and design discussions to distinguish the motif itself from the medium that carries it. It is not a single standardized term across all disciplines, but it is helpful for describing technique, materials, and attribution.

In the visual arts, the Motivträger usually refers to the support of a painting or drawing—the canvas, wood panel, paper, or other substrate—on which the motif is realized. In conservation and technical art history, identifying the Motívträger is important for assessing materials, dating works, and planning restoration, since changes to the carrier can affect the perceived motif.

In textile and wallpaper design, the motif belongs to a repeating pattern printed or woven onto fabric or paper, with the fabric or paper acting as the Motivträger for the visible design. In graphic and industrial design, the term can be used to distinguish between the motif (the graphic element) and its carrier (the substrate, print medium, or support).

Etymology and usage: the term is formed from Motív (motif) and Träger (carrier, bearer). It is more common in German-language sources and may be rare in English-language texts; its precise application varies by field and context.