Ornament

Ornament is a decorative element added to objects, architecture, or spaces to enhance visual appeal or express meaning. It is distinguished from function by its primary purpose being aesthetic, though it can carry symbolic or social significance. Ornament can be applied to architecture, furniture, metalwork, ceramics, textiles, jewelry, and landscape design, either as an integral feature or as an additive embellishment.

Etymology: The term derives from Latin ornamentum, from ornare "to decorate." In art and design, ornament encompasses motifs, patterns, and symbolic imagery drawn from nature, culture, and history.

Historically, ornament appears in prehistoric artifacts and persists through ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman art; medieval Christian and Islamic decoration; the Renaissance revival of classical motifs; Baroque and Rococo exuberance; Neoclassicism's restraint; and 19th-century industrial production that broadened ornament's reach. In the 20th century, modernist movements often rejected excess ornament, while later designers embraced eclectic or digital forms.

Techniques and materials: Ornament is produced through carving, casting, inlay, engraving, gilding, filigree, mosaic, and appliqué, using materials such as metal, stone, wood, ceramic, glass, fabric, and plastics.

Contemporary context: In modern practice, ornament remains integral to architecture, product design, and graphic arts, ranging from restrained minimal motifs to bold maximal patterns. The discussion about ornament versus function—exemplified by Adolf Loos's Ornament and Crime—continues to influence design discourse.