Architectural carving
Reference articles are in English.
Carved columns, capitals and arches at Hadrian’s Gate in Antalya, Türkiye. Source
Description
Architectural carving forms part of a building’s fabric or composition. It includes mouldings, capitals, figures, foliage and other ornament. The scale of the carving relates to the surrounding masonry, viewing distance and light. Drawings, templates or models establish the form, while joints and setting-out connect it to the building.
History
Carved ornament has been integral to many architectural traditions. Medieval European portals, column capitals and cloisters demonstrate how sculptors adapted figures and patterns to the shapes of building elements.
Commissioning
The brief should show the location and adjoining construction. Design, stone selection, carving and installation responsibilities should be agreed. Replacement work on a historic building also requires a record of surviving profiles and evidence for missing details.