The Meander Motif in Art and Architecture

Turnabout is more than fair play since it is also a method for creating the steady, ornamental patterns in art and architecture known as the Meander. Named after the Meander River in South Western Turkey, a river that is not to be slighted as it is mentioned in the Iliad by Homer. The twists and turns of this great river include U shaped Oxbow lakes formed when the river changes course. The course of the Meander River begins as a single path that then twists back and forward again on itself. This same description is the epitome of and precise description of the Meander art motif.

One of the most recognized and historically important Meanders is the Greek Key or Greek Fret as decorative border, on friezes, and some porticos. Fortunately for us, there is quite a variety of different versions and each is a visual delight. The basis for all Greek Keys does remain that the square protruding pieces resemble the shape of key.

The term Greek Fret evolved in that the same design, at least in theory, may have been patterned and cut with a fretsaw, therefore a fret. Both terms are meant to describe the same simplistic, geometric shape, a shape that can also be construed as infinite or even a definition or symbolic description of infinity itself.

Comparisons of the Greek Key to the style of a labyrinth abound, however, other theories include the symbolism of the bonds of love, eternal life, friendship and devotion and also the meander of life. It seems the theories, as well as the motif pattern, are also infinite.

The aesthetics of the Greek Key were pronounce enough that the ancient Romans adopted the pattern for their mosaics. The centuries long, cross-cultural appeal of the Greek Key includes the Nation of Dongson in what is now modern day Vietnam and even the Hopi Nation of North America.

The Meander as a motif is not limited to the Greek Key but provides many other examples of the same twisting and turning basic element. The Chevron is a V shaped pattern that is often used as an insignia for heraldry, a design on flags, road signs, and especially reflected in architecture. When the symbol is linked and repeated it becomes a Meander since it does technically turn back on itself.

Another Meander that was popular in the Medieval Age is the Twisted Ribbon motif. More intricate that the standard Greek Key, the Twisted Ribbon motif includes continuos bands, or ribbons, in a rectilinear, three dimensional pattern.

From ancient Greek temples to modern neo-classical art and architecture, the Meander continues to thrive as a popular ornament and decoration. Perhaps what we generally appreciate is the general quiet constancy of the patterns and motifs, as well as the aesthetics.