Cephalostyle

/ˈsɛfəloʊstaɪl/ noun

Definition

In architecture or sculpture, a style or design element emphasizing the head or employing a head-like form as an ornamental feature.

Etymology

From Greek 'kephale' (head) + 'stylos' (pillar or style). In artistic terminology, '-style' or 'style' indicates a distinctive mode of expression or decoration.

Kelly Says

Art history is loaded with Greek-derived terms that sound technical but really just describe visual choices—'cephalostyle' is probably the most obscure way to say 'they really liked to put heads on things as decoration,' but precision in art criticism sometimes demands it.

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