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Roundels


From Design+Encyclopedia, the free encyclopedia on good design, art, architecture, creativity, engineering and innovation.
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Roundels

Roundels are circular or semi-circular decorative elements that have been used in architecture for centuries. They are often found in religious and secular buildings and can be made from a variety of materials, including stone, terracotta, and ceramic. Roundels can be found in many different cultures and time periods, and they have been used to ornament exteriors, such as in the tympana of ancient Greek and Roman temples, and to adorn the interiors of churches and palaces. One interesting aspect of roundels is their use in heraldry. In heraldry, a roundel is a circular charge that can be of any color, and it is often used to represent the sun or the moon. Roundels can also be used to represent other objects or concepts, such as coins or planets. In addition to their use in heraldry, roundels have also been used in art and design, particularly in the Art Deco and Art Nouveau movements of the early 20th century. Another interesting aspect of roundels is their use in aviation. In aviation, a roundel is a circular marking that is painted on an aircraft to indicate its nationality. The roundel typically consists of a circle with one or more concentric rings and may contain a symbol or emblem in the center. The use of roundels as national markings dates back to World War I, when they were first used by the British Royal Flying Corps. Overall, roundels are a versatile and enduring decorative element that have been used in many different contexts throughout history. Whether carved in stone, painted on an aircraft, or used in heraldry, roundels continue to be a popular and recognizable design element.

architecture, heraldry, aviation, decorative element, circular charge

David Anderson

247048
Roundels

Roundels are circular or semi-circular architectural motifs or decorative elements that are often used in both religious and secular architecture. These motifs are found in various forms and materials in structures built in many different cultures and time periods. Roundels have been used to ornament exteriors, such as in the tympana of ancient Greek and Roman temples, and to adorn the interiors of churches and palaces, as well as in other types of buildings and structures. Roundels are often carved in stone, though they may also be made of terracotta, ceramic, or other materials. They are often decorated with floral motifs, figures, or inscriptions, and they may also be used to represent symbolic or spiritual meanings. The use of roundels as decorative elements has a long history, stretching back to ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt and continuing through the Middle Ages and Renaissance.

Roundels, motif, decoration, element, architecture, symbolism.

Mark Wilson


Roundels Definition
Roundels on Design+Encyclopedia

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