Strapwork

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In the history of art and design, the term strapwork refers to a stylised representation of strips or bands of curling leather. Strapwork is a frequent element of grotesques -- arabesque figures filled with fantastical creatures, garlands and other elements -- which were a frequent decorative motif from the Renaissance to the 19th century and which may appear on walls -- painted, in frescos, carved in wood, or molded in plaster or stucco -- or in graphic work. The term strapwork is used to distinguish it from floral garlands or other decorative elements.

During the Renaissance trim and other materials were used to lay over each other in a loose basket weave pattern. This use of trim is referred to as strapwork.

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