Definition

Noun: A classical architectural ornament consisting of a repeating pattern of oval (egg-like) shapes alternating with narrow, pointed, dart-like shapes. This motif is commonly carved or molded onto convex moldings, particularly in classical architecture and furniture design.

Examples

• The elaborate egg-and-dart molding along the cornice added a touch of classical elegance to the room.
• Restoration experts carefully recreated the original egg-and-dart pattern on the wooden mantelpiece.
• You can see fine examples of egg-and-dart ornamentation on ancient Greek and Roman buildings.

Advanced Usage

• The egg-and-dart motif is a hallmark of the Ionic order in classical architecture, often found on the echinus of the capital.
• In design terminology, egg-and-dart is considered a type of "running ornament" or "frieze ornament."

Variants and Related Words

• Egg-and-anchor (noun): A very similar decorative motif where the dart shape is replaced by an anchor or arrowhead shape. It is often considered a variant or synonym for egg-and-dart.
• Egg-and-tongue (noun): Another name for the same or a nearly identical pattern.
• Molding/Moulding (noun): A general term for a shaped strip used for decoration, often featuring ornaments like egg-and-dart.
• Ovolo (noun): A convex molding, often the type of profile on which an egg-and-dart pattern is carved.

Synonyms

• Egg-and-anchor
• Egg-and-tongue

Related Idioms or Phrases

(This specific term is a technical name for a design element and is not commonly used in idiomatic phrases.)

Noun

1. a decorative molding; a series of egg-shaped figures alternating with another shape