scrolling ends. This doubtless was in emulation of the French work of the period of Henry II, when strapping composed of straight and curved lines entered largely into ornamental detail. In the period of Louis XIII
No. 252. Development of the Acanthus Leaf.
I. French, Louis XIV. J. English, Grinling Gibbons. K. French, Louis XV. L. English, Adam. M. French, Louis XVI. N. Louis XVI (Salombier). O. English, Late 18th Century.
shield and cartouche shapes were much in vogue, on account probably of their mass value and the contrast afforded with the subordinate detail, which developed into the foliated strap frame of the Louis XIV style.
The details of this latter period were expressed in bold relief, the decorated areas being well filled, in contrast to the earlier Italian style in which the background frequently predominated over the ornament. The sectioning or modelling of the leaves, which by this time were typically French, was elaborate but well considered as to harmonious play of line. Shell forms were employed and were effective, both as mass shapes and for the radial elaboration of their surfaces.
In conjunction with artificial details, natural foliage was employed in the form of wreaths and festoons, composed of leaves and appropriate flowers; the conventional stem was little used, the foliated strap being more often evident.