# What is a Bucranium?
**A bucranium (plural: bucrania) is a decorative architectural ornament carved or moulded in the shape of an ox skull. Originating in ancient Greek and Roman architecture, bucrania are typically found on friezes, metopes, and altar decorations, often draped with garlands or festoons between the skulls.**
## Historical origins
The motif derives from the ancient practice of hanging real ox skulls on temple walls after sacrificial rituals. Over time, the actual skulls were replaced by carved stone representations. The bucranium became a standard element in the Doric order, appearing prominently on temples, tombs, and public buildings throughout the Hellenistic and Roman periods.
## Architectural placement
### Classical usage
In the Doric frieze, bucrania often alternate with rosettes or paterae in the metope panels. On Roman altars and funerary monuments, they appear as continuous bands connected by swags of fruit, flowers, or fabric.
### Neoclassical revival
During the Renaissance and the 18th-century neoclassical movement, architects revived the bucranium as a decorative motif for facades, interior cornices, fireplace mantels, and furniture. It symbolized sacrifice, abundance, and piety.
## Design characteristics
– Frontal view of a stylised ox or bull skull
– Often shown with curved horns
– Frequently connected by garlands (festoons) or ribbons
– Can be rendered in stone, plaster, terracotta, or wood
## Applications
– Friezes on civic and religious buildings
– Exterior facade ornamentation in neoclassical architecture
– Interior decorative plasterwork and cornices
– Furniture design and ornamental metalwork
– Garden architecture and follies
## Related terms
– Frieze
– Metope
– Festoon
– Doric order
– Patera
– Bas-relief
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