As we move through this current period of architecture and interiors, generally bereft of pattern or complex form, we can be assured that pattern will return to our world, and for many, it has never really gone away, since the pleasure derived from the color and movement of something that warms us to be near, can never be underestimated.

It is pattern that, since the time when we were able to scratch out something on a cave wall or into the earth, tells our story and gives meaning to our existence. It can evoke a good (or questionable) memory and it can move us to simply feel good about its beauty. We can derive great pleasure from a design, however simple, and without wishing an entire sofa to be covered in cabbage roses, we can be surprised how the addition of small amounts of pattern can add character to a room.

Within the patterns which have been so much a part of our textile and architectural history, lie stories of cultural, spiritual and artistic meaning, and reference points that tells us much about where we have come from and where we might be headed.

Here are a few examples:

Tree of Life:
One of the earliest universal symbols, depicting the idea that all life originated from deep roots within the earth and stretched upward to link with the heavens. The tree provides protection and sustains creation by bearing
abundant fruits, as well as flowers, birds and animals, each with their own symbolic meaning. Although the design has become more refined throughout history, the messages remain the same, offering wisdom, bounty, protection, strength and beauty. The seeds of the tree and its fruits provide regeneration to the world.

Pomegranate:
Literally meaning “Seeded Apple”, the Greeks called it “Fruit of the Underworld”, while for the Muslims it was the “Fruit of Paradise”. Jewish custom suggests that 613 pomegranate seeds represent the 613 commandments of the Torah. It has inspired illustration since biblical times, and can be found in many wallpaper and textile designs today. It offers abundance, marriage and fertility.

Acorn:
During the Norman Conquest, English soldiers carried dried acorns in their pockets to protect themselves from the brutalities of war. They were to bring luck, prosperity, youthfulness, spiritual growth and power. The Nords were convinced of their ability to bring life and immortality, and the Celts and Druids would swallow them whole to bring them closer to the divine mind. Do not try this. It’s Folklore!

Peacock:
Within many cultures, this graceful bird has represented
human qualities of glory, immortality, beauty, integrity, nobility and holiness as well as benevolence, patience, kindness and compassion. The Greeks and Romans dedicated the Peacock to Juno, the Goddess of Sky and Stars, for the way in which it could watch the stars. They named the circled patterns of its tail “1000 eyes”, and it has been said that a pair of peacocks guard the gates of heaven.

Pineapple:
When this fruit of Brazilian and Paraguayan origin was shipped by Indian navigators to other countries such as the Caribbean islands, traders then brought it onward to America, where its unusual form became the perfect showpiece for the homes of the New World. They were bought or even rented to create extravagant displays in the houses of the new wealthy, and naturally became symbols of warmth, friendship and hospitality. Pineapples became significant as architectural motifs and used as decoration in everything from chair backs to stenciled
patterns, to cakes and jelly molds.

Acanthus Leaf:
A plant of the Mediterranean whose heavy, stylish leaf is found in many patterns and architectural details today. The Greek architect Callimachus (c305 - c240 B.C) is said to have come across a small square basket at the grave of a young girl. A tile had been used as a lid to protect its contents, some of her possessions. He noticed how an acanthus plant had forced its way from the earth and through the basket, its leaves intertwined with the basket’s sides. This was his inspiration to create fine square columns with adorned capitols.

Palm:
A leaf that has rewarded Roman champions for military success, while in Islamic traditions it was used as gestures of hospitality and rest. The Jews have carried palm leaves during festive times, and the Palm tree is said to connect heaven with earth, with its star like canopy and strong, straight trunk emanating from the ground. The palm leaf has come to signify victory, peace, opportunity and fertility, and is widely used today within damask patterns.

Today, we can find many refined examples of these early
symbols within architecture, textiles and interior details, and we can look at our current time of minimalism and solid colors as an opportunity to implant some patterns into our surroundings, which we can enjoy and even gain some context to our lives. Even for the faint hearted a little can go a long way and we can boast their significance of good will and hospitality, whether they be within the detailed illustration of a rug or the simplest pillow, a staircase finial or a wallpapered Powder Room. For as long as we remain creative beings, pattern will be a way of expressing ourselves and life’s path. Perhaps you have good (or bad) memories of your own within the world of pattern. We would love to hear about them.