The Scroll
In Roman art the scroll, which constituted the chief decoration of the friezes and panels, was greatly developed and rendered with more freedom and variety of treatment; assuming the form of a growing or climbing stem, bearing flowers and clothed with leaves. A treatment which is fairly consistent with such types as the Vine and other climbing growths in nature.
The undulating stem with branching scrolls is prominent, both in friezes and panels; the character of the foliage became more varied, the stiff and formal acanthus leaf being only used in the capitals of columns and in structural features.
The version employed in more decorative positions
No. 237. Detail of Roman Frieze, in Carved Stone.
exhibited greater freedom in form, attitude and section. Natural types for the sake of variety were used, generally in subordinated positions, and there is occasional evidence of the influence of these in the treatment of the acanthus detail.