Pointruitment

Pointruitment refers to a design or decorative feature that incorporates a pointed or tapered shape. This aesthetic device can be found in various art forms, architectural styles, and decorative items. In design, a point is often used to create visual interest, draw attention, or add a sense of tension.

The use of points in design can be seen in the distorted or elongated forms found in certain styles of art, such as Baroque or Mannerist painting. These visual distortions may include the elongation of figures or the use of unusual perspectives. In architecture, pointed arches are a common feature in Gothic Revival and Gothic styles, often used to create a sense of verticality and movement.

Pointruitment can also be applied to everyday objects, such as ornamented columns, or the handheld sculptural forms used in Islamic decorative art. These decorative pieces often feature intricate patterns and shapes that employ pointed or tapered forms to create visual balance and a sense of ornamentation.

The term pointruitment is derived from the French word for "point," likely developed in the late 19th or early 20th century to describe specific design elements. It has since been used in design and art theory to describe the various ways in which pointed or tapered shapes are employed to create a desired aesthetic effect.

Pointruitment should not be confused with similar design elements, such as gothic arches or chevrons. It is a term that refers specifically to the incorporation of pointed or tapered shapes in design. In this way, pointruitment serves as a useful term for art historians, designers, and enthusiasts to describe the creative use of pointed shapes in visual art and decoration.