Rocaille

views updated May 23 2018

Rocaille.
1. System of decoration derived from rock-work, ornamented with pebbles and shells found in follies and, especially, grottoes, often associated with water, fountains, cascades, etc.

2. Type of Rococo scroll-like ornament, not unlike Auricular forms, arranged asymmetrically, notably around frames etc., suggesting seaweed and other marine flora.

Bibliography

H. Bauer (1962);
Kimball (1980);
Lampugnani (ed.) & Dinsmoor (1986)

rocaille

views updated May 21 2018

ro·caille / rōˈkī; rä-/ • n. 1. an 18th-century artistic or architectural style of decoration characterized by elaborate ornamentation with pebbles and shells, typical of grottos and fountains.2. (rocailles) tiny beads.