Architectural Corbels

Over the past few decades there have been thousands of different corbels that have come onto the market and become tremendously popular.  Despite their popularity what exactly they are and how corbels came to exist is not very commonly known.  In the most basic definition decorative corbels are a piece of stone, wood, or other material that juts from a wall to support a weight.  Just what weight it is supporting is dependant on where it is. 

But while performing this weight bearing function architectural corbels can offer a throwback to the past in the décor of your home.  The name itself is derived from the French word for crow, since the corbel is shaped similarly to a beak.  They can also be called a corbeau in France, a mensola in Italy, or a kragstein in Germany. 

Architectural corbels are most well known for being used on the sides of churches and cathedrals as gargoyles.  This of Notre Dame in Paris or the Gallarus Oratory in Ireland and you will see their influence in historical architecture.  The appearance of decorative corbels through history does depend on that region of the world you are looking at. 

For example, Romanesque corbels are often made of stone and elaborately engraved with animal or human figures, or mythological beasts.  Italian corbels from the 16th century are generally made of wood and are mostly used to create very richly decorated balconies. 

Another technique used with decorative corbels is a corbel arch.  This is a method of construction that creates an arch using the technique of architectural corbels to span the space.  This same method can be used to support a roof but is referred to as a corbel vault. 

All of these types of corbels can be traced back to Neolithic times, making them some of the oldest architectural techniques.  These days corbels are used not only as a way to provide structural support but also for simple home decoration as well.  They are a very affordable way to add style and culture to your home, while maintaining your own unique sense of design.  

When decorative corbels are used most effectively they will not be noticeable unless you are looking for them.  They simply add an understated design element to your home that provides the right atmosphere without being overtly styled.