rhizoverbBeta
DictionarymotifRecurring artistic element
noun

motif

moh-TEEF/məʊˈtiːf/

A distinctive design or element used in a work of art.

The blue leaf motif repeats along the decorative tile border.

A decorative tile border repeats the same blue leaf motif at regular intervals, clear recurring visual design.
Etymology
motLatinto move
+ifLatintending to

The pieces originally expressed something moving or impelling. In artistic use, the meaning became a dominant idea or theme, especially one that recurs throughout a work.

In context

The Decorative Arts Trust16:42
in the use of an arch of stars over the American Eagle however the four Center floral medallions are much bolder and Cunningham's Washington motif offers a new take
Women, Weavers & Jacquard Coverlets in New York State - Britney Schline Yatrakis

More examples

  • Mirrors form a recurring motif in the novel.
  • The composer brings back the opening motif in the final movement.
  • The tiles feature colorful star motifs.

Forms

motif · motifs

Similar words

pattern
A repeated visual arrangement, not necessarily a distinctive artistic element.
theme
A work's central subject or idea, rather than a recurring detail.