Woodworks

This is a version of laurel wreath made of wood. carved by the artist A laurel wreath is a round wreath made of connected branches and leaves of the bay laurel , an aromatic broadleaf evergreen, or later from spineless butcher’s broom or cherry laurel. It is a symbol of triumph and is worn as a chaplet around the head, or as a garland around the neck. The symbol of the laurel wreath traces back to Greek mythology. Apollo is represented wearing a laurel wreath on his head, and wreaths were awarded to victors in athletic competitions, including the ancient Olympics — for which they were made of wild olive-tree known as “kotinos“ —and in poetic meets. In Rome they were symbols of martial victory, crowning a successful commander during his triumph. Whereas ancient laurel wreaths are most often depicted as a horseshoe shape, modern versions are usually complete rings.