Rococo and Rocaille — Lynn Byrne

If you are going to walk the walk, you should talk the talk.

What is the difference between rococo and rocaille? Rococo is a design period. A rocaille is an ornamental motif used in rococo design.

Definitions

Rococo: an elaborate decorative arts style originating in France in the early 18th century. It is characterized by a profusion of asymmetrical scrollwork, called “s-scrolls” and “c-scrolls,” and curvilinear forms. Because of those shapely curves, Rococo is described as a “feminine” style. It was revived during the Victorian period.

Rocaille (rhymes with “exile”) : ornamentation often seen on Rococo furniture that looks like a shell or the irregular shapes of small pebbles. It frequently appears in the center of Rococo’s characteristic s-scrolls and c-scrolls. In the early 18th century, it was part of a common phrase “rocaille et coquille,” or “rock and shell.” In French, the “Style Rocaille” is synonymous with “Rococo.”

Examples

**Note s-scrolls, c-scrolls and center rocaille element, all Rococo design elements**

**Architectural detail in the Rococo style**

**Rococo table, c.1750, Note the irregular pebble shape in center (rocaille).**

**Rococo-revival sofa from the Victorian Period**

Interested in learning more? Check out the other entries in my Design Dictionary: Acanthus, Caning, Anthemion and Palmette , Caryatid and Gadrooning. Design Dictionary is a regular weekly column on Decor Arts Now, usually appearing on Tuesdays.

Photo credits: First image. Drawing. Rocaille ornament. Architectural Detail. Rococo table. Bed. Fireplace screen. Rococo-style wallpaper. Mirror. Shoe. Victorian Sofa. Hardware. Mirror and Console.