Which term refers to the spiral form composed of stems and leaves used in decoration?

• A. Rinceaux
• B. Sphinx
• C. Griffin
• D. Sella Curullis

Answer: (A)

Rinceaux describe a slender, continuous spiral of foliage—stems and leaves—that winds across furniture, frames, and architectural details. This decorative motif, common in Rococo and Baroque ornament, creates a flowing, plant-filled line rather than a fixed figure, and it’s often seen as a decorative border or panel embellishment. The term emphasizes the plant scroll itself, a distinct idea from representations of creatures or unrelated Latin terms. In contrast, a sphinx or griffin is a sculpted figure, not a floral scroll, and a term like Sella Curullis refers to a chair or a non-ornamental concept, not a decorative spiral. While arabesque can resemble it, rinceau is typically a single, continuous winding line of stems and leaves forming a spiral or flowing track.