A similar revival of the Antique succeeded the Revolution in France, in the Empire style, which, more literal in reproduction than the Adam work, is characterised with, at times, undesirable severity and precision of detail, particularly in the treatment of the human figure.
System of the Acanthus Leaf
The system of the acanthus leaf is based entirely on radiation, the tines and veinings being arranged in consistently diverging directions from a common base or start-point. Whether the whole leaf be displayed or merely the half leaf used, the shape should be bounded by general lines controlling the lobes and their serrations—the mass shape forming a satisfactory silhouette.
The length of the lobes should be relative to the breadth of the leaf, the maximum length agreeing with the maximum width, and the others in proportion.
The edges or outlines of serrations and lobes should also be controlled by radial lines from the base.
No. 253. Construction of the Acanthus Leaf.
In turn-overs and curling or twisting lobes the silhouette shape and composing line must be considered.
The apex of leaf terminates with a central lobe balanced by side lobes repeated throughout. In treatment these may be displayed clear of each other, or they may overlap, but care must be taken to avoid confusion in effect.