accolade

In architecture, an accolade is an embellished arch found most typically in late Gothic architecture. The term comes from French (l'accolade), referencing a "braced" arch. It is also known as an ogee arch (English), un arco conopial (Spanish), resaunt (Middle English), arco carenato or inflesso (Italian), and kielbogen (German). An accolade is a pointed arch composed of two ogee curves, also known as sigmoid lines, which mirror one another. It can be formed by a pair of reverse ogee curves over a three-centered arch ending in a vertical finial. The form can also be described as the combination of a convex arch and a concave arch. Usage An accolade is usually a decorative molding placed over an opening. The structures are unable to support significant loads, so they are primarily decorative. It has been primarily used over small openings like niches, tombs, windows, and screens as it is difficult to construct. History The accolade was introduced and was most commonly used during the Decorated period of Gothic architecture. It was an element of Church architecture in England from the eleventh to sixteenth century. The peak of the accolade's popularity was during the thirteenth century. During the fourteenth century, there was an evolution in its appearance.