Mascaron (architecture)

In architecture, a mascaron ornament is a face, usually human, sometimes frightening or chimeric whose function was originally to frighten away evil spirits so that they would not enter the building.[1] The concept was subsequently adapted to become a purely decorative element. The most recent architectural styles to extensively employ mascarons were Beaux Arts and Art Nouveau.[2][3] In addition to architecture, mascarons are used in the other applied arts.

Mascaron above a door from Paris

See also

References

  1. "mascaron". Oxford Reference. oxfordreference.com. Retrieved 6 September 2016.
  2. "BUCHAREST 1870S MASCARON". casedeepoca.com. Retrieved 6 September 2016.
  3. "Art Nouveau in faces: fantasy world of "New art"". essenziale-hd.com. May 29, 2013. Retrieved 6 September 2016.
  4. Mascarons de Bordeaux (fr.wikipedia)


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