Acanthus is a classical ornament in the form of a stylised leaf decoration based on the scalloped leaves of the acanthus plant. Acanthus is the most prolific foliage to flourish as a decorative motif on architecture, furniture and works of art. Derived from the Mediterranean, in the hands of artists it can also resemble thistle, poppy or parsley leaves.
Even Gothic and Romanesque architects and craftsmen employed it and from the Renaissance to the mid 1800’s it was constantly in favour.