Significant shapes and forms that recur in a pattern.

The basic motif that is repeated in a larger pattern. See the motifs outlined in color in the adjacent slide show of images.

Repeating linear, radial, or symmetrical arrangements of geometric shapes.

A repeat pattern formed by small, repeated geometrical motifs (squares, rectangles, or lozenges, etc.) used to decorate stone surfaces in architecture, textiles, and backgrounds in illuminated manuscripts, wall painting, or panel painting.

Design made of alternating squares in two or more different colors or shades.

Design dominated by diagonal lines.

V-shaped or zigzag geometric design made by connecting diagonal lines that meet at an angle.

Design made of tiled ogees, that is, double-opposing curves that mimic mirrored “S” shapes or an inverted “onion” shape.

Surface design resembling fish or reptile scales.

stylized, ribbon-like forms, often appearing thick as though made of cut leather or metal, arranged in elaborate shapes and often interwoven in a pattern or frame-like device via the use of piercing or rivet holes.

Flat field of patterning composed of the cut-metal-like forms charateristic of strapwork.

A repeating set of floral motifs less focused on the scrolling tendrils of scrollwork.

A decorative design comprised of leaves arranged in a pattern.

A pattern made from mixing other established pattern types.

A classical architectural ornament made of a repeating pattern that alternates between an oval shape (an “egg”) and a pointed, V-shaped or arrow-like element (a “dart”).

An architectural ornament depicting bundles of of reeds tied with ribbon.

Design made of curving, undulating, or wave-like forms.

A repeating decorative border pattern that mimics breaking ocean waves or a series of rolled parchment paper viewed end-on.

A decorative border constructed from a continuous line, shaped into a repeating motif. The most recognizable meander pattern is the Greek key.

A decorative pattern or border constructed from interweaving lines and shapes that periodically repeat. Though they can resemble strapwork, interlace patterns are typically less three-dimensional and tend to emphasize the interweaving or knotting of lines.

Bricks arranged in a pattern.

Coloring or marking that resembles variegated marble.

Having vertical grooves running the length of the structure.

Decorative pattern created by twisting two or more strands together; NOT a proper braid.

Decorative patterns created by interlacing strands of fiber, hair, or similar.

Numerous small dots that are present in drawings, paintings, or engravings as a decorative pattern (rather than as a way to shade an object to give it the illusion of dimensionality).

Letterforms used not to spell words, but purely for their aesthetic forms to decorate an area.