Today’s word is: caryatid. Let’s find out what it is and how it was used in the past thanks to an antique decorated with caryatids.

What is caryatid?

Caryatid is a column or pillar in the shape of a woman. Its function is to support architraves, balustrades, balconies, shelves. Although it was an element used mainly in architecture, you can find a lot of furniture adorned with caryatids, especially neoclassical.

Where does this term come from?

According to Vitruvius (remember what other term in our dictionary of antiques is explained by this Roman architect?) the term “caryatid” would mean “woman of Karyes”. Said so for many it does not mean anything but once you read the story you understand the fascinating reason behind this name.

The women of Karyes, a city in the Peloponnese, supported the Persians during the war. After the defeat and destruction of their city, as punishment, they were made slaves, while retaining their matronal garments and attributes. Following this event, to commemorate it, Greek architects began to depict them as supporting the weight of the building.

Vitruvius’ explanation, however, is not entirely realistic. Greek architecture, in fact, had already depicted the caryatids in the previous century in the treasury of the Siphnians in the sanctuary of Apollo at Delphi. The explanation of the term, therefore, seems to be another. If you look at the most famous caryatids, those of the Erechtheion on the Acropolis of Athens, they do not seem to feel the fatigue deriving from holding the weight but rather look like korais. Their name, therefore, comes from the dancing maidens of the city of Karya, famous for its annual choirs.

An example

As usual, to better explain today’s term “caryatid” we looked in our warehouses for a piece to show you. We found a Napoleon III coffee table.

It is a small table supported by a base with a central shelf adorned with a gilded bronze flower. The uprights have the features of winged caryatids resting on lion’s legs.

If you want to see live all our antiques you just have to come and visit us in our shops and in the warehouse of Cambiago. We are waiting for you!