Quatrefoils and Clovers
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Quatrefoil – an ornamental design of four lobes or leaves as used in architectural tracery [the stone frames around stained glass], resembling a flower or four-leaf clover. From the Anglo-Norman French “quatre” for “four” and “foil” for “leaf.”
The quatrefoil often appears in Gothic architecture, and in Christian imagery, the four leaves frequently represent the four gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. There is evidence, however, that the design has Islamic origins. The Moorish fountain below is an example of a “barbed” quatrefoil:
The quatrefoil has been a recurring design motif since the late 15th century, and its clover shape makes it perfect for St. Patrick’s Day.
The quatrefoil can be seen a few places around Richmond. In 2009, Martin Branding Worldwide created a new logo for St. Catherine’s School. The image can be found on many cars around town:
St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church at the corner of Grove Avenue and Three Chopt Road echoes the Early English Gothic Style and features several quatrefoils on its facade:
Come visit Janet Brown Interiors to find a clover or a touch of green to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day!
Post by Kathleen Sams Flippen for Janet Brown Interiors.
Quatrefoil – an ornamental design of four lobes or leaves as used in architectural tracery [the stone frames around stained glass], resembling a flower or four-leaf clover. From the Anglo-Nor…
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