A Sigh of Acanthus Relief

When I look at artistry of something this beautiful—a Roman acanthus relief dating to the first quarter of the first Century A.D.—I count myself lucky to have such beauty readily available right here in Atlanta. 

Roman Acanthus Relief,
Michael C. Carlos Museum

Did you know that the acanthus plant is the inspiration for Corinthian capitols?

This particular piece has a companion that was found in a church in Rome, both of Cararra marble, which was favored by Michelangelo. Friends just had Cararra marble counter tops installed in their new home and they're gorgeous, so I can imagine the splendor of this piece on the day of its unveiling. Stunning...absolutely stunning!

This, and many others like it, are on display at the Michael C. Carlos Museum (which I've blogged about on multiple occasions)...one of Atlanta's finest hidden treasures. 

Well, I've been awake since 2:30 a.m., making it an 18-hour day so far (from work, I went to a volunteer gig...just now home). Therefore, that's all I'm writing tonight. But I'll have more gorgeousness for you soon!

Cover: Inspired by..."Thorny"?

Did you know that the aesthetic inspiration for Corinthian columns came from the acanthus plant, specifically the leaves? They find themselves in other artistic expressions as well, including this relief that's on display at the Michael C. Carlos Museum.

Acanthus Relief at the Carlos
Michael C. Carlos Museum

I've had a life-long love of columns (exaggerated by living in Greece for a while), but more so their capitals...in all their marvelous forms. But the Corinthian has been a consistent favorite. It was only in the past year that I learned of the Acanthus as inspiration.

It surprised me at first that their inspiration is derived from a plant whose literal translation is "thorny". It's not that I'm not surprised that the capital's inspiration is from a 'plant'—so much in our lives is inspired by nature—but that 'thorny plants' carry a negative connotation. Then again, I suppose in this case it could also represent strength, protection, and beauty. 

Carved from Carrara marble, this particular piece comes from a monument in Rome from approximately the first quarter of the first century A.D. 

Enjoy the pre-sized Facebook Cover Photo above and then head over to the wanderlust ATLANTA Facebook Page where you'll find lots more!