Classical Principles

Xoanon

An archaic Greek cult statue, originally carved in wood and regarded as a sacred image.

Zoophorus

A sculptured frieze or horizontal band bearing figures of animals or persons, especially in classical architectural decoration.

Originality

In design, originality need not be the pursuit of novelty. It may arise by moving upstream through inherited convention toward the originating problem, first principle, or direct encounter from which form grows.

Form

The three-dimensional organization and perceptible shape of a sculptural mass.

Equipoise

A condition of equilibrium or finely controlled balance.

Eurythmía

A classical principle of harmonious proportion, graceful rhythm, and well-ordered movement between parts within a work of art, architecture, or the human body.

Fluted Column

A column whose shaft is articulated by repeated vertical concave grooves.

Gravitas

Latin for weight, seriousness, or dignity.

Grazia

Vasari's term for the indefinable grace that makes a work appear effortless — the un non so che of perfect art.

Proportion

The comparative relationship of dimensions within a figure, object, or composition and between its parts and the whole.