Acanthus (Part 1)~ By Ralph Duncan

If you were an herbalist, you probably would refer to this spiny ground crawling plant (looks like a thistle to me) as Bear’s Breeches. Some references say the name was derived from the plant’s resemblance to a bear claw. It is rather thorny, in fact, that is pretty much the translation of the Latin form of the Greek name, akanthos. Your herbalist bent would drive you to prescribe this plant for muscle and joint ache.

Haven’t tried that, but maybe I should.

That might just be enough prestige for one plant, but, not this guy. Truth is, the Acanthus is an ancient plant whose lore and the image has endured throughout history. Most agree that it originated in the Mediterranean. Reportedly first adapted for design by the sculptor Callimachus, somewhere around the ancient city of Corinth. We can still see the results of his influence and the Acanthus on Corinthian columns today.

Wow, great medicinal value and still seen today atop the great pillars of antiquity. But even that is not the end of the story. This little plant has somehow, beyond my comprehension, has managed to endear itself to architects, carvers and sculptors, furniture makers and even the American cowboy. 

Nearly every civilization on the European continent has adapted this leaf to classic designs and ornaments. From the Greek, the Romans, the French, and the British to the Norwegians. All have their own interpretations. Some show a rather traditional looking leafy plant, other variants are characterized by long sweeping curves, and still, others are very baroque in their form with round tight curves and lots of undercutting.

The composite picture shows four different applications of the Acanthus in three different interpretations. The original Corinthian, here shown at an early stage of carving, two different applications of the Norwegian, more baroque version and a version I usually attribute to the British.

In the US the Acanthus has become a favorite and even a standard among artisans. We see it on traditional furniture and as an ornament on fixtures such as mirror and picture frames, architectural friezes, jewelry and more.

It has become standard for traditionally trained woodcarvers to spend years developing and perfecting the acanthus form. Carvers are taught, not only its history and tradition, but its structure as well, breaking down each leaf and the “proper” appearance of each curve and sweep of each component of this leaf.

In subsequent posts, I will explore some specific applications and histories of the Acanthus. In the meantime, take a look around and see if you can spot one. Maybe it is on your Bible.

Photographer unknown