Unity, perfect accord in all the parts of a design. Unity is often a characteristic of designs that are very monotonous, so by itself it will scarcely render a design pleasing.
Unsymmetrical, without symmetry, such as the volute. See the word Balance.
Variety, the absence of similarity; a word embracing an infinity of differences, from two things that are not absolutely alike, to two things that are absolutely unlike. The judicious use of variety gives interest to ornament, but uniformity with slight variety gives the most dignity.
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FOOTNOTES:
[1] M. Henri Mayeux, La Composition Décorative, 8vo, Paris, s.a.
[2] See M. César Daly’s Motifs Historique, fol., Paris, 1881.
[3] The chambers under Titus’ baths in which the paintings were found, were originally parts of Nero’s golden house.
[4] There are, however, figures of men and animals occasionally found in their carved wood-work, tiles, damascened work, carpets, and embroidery.