The Laurel Wreath of the Classical Age

The laurel wreath is a circular wreath made from the branches of the Laurus Nobilis, the Ruscus Hypoglossum, or the Prunus Iaurocerasus. In ancient Greece, laurels most often took the shape of a horse shoe. 

Golden laurel wreath, probably from Cyprus, 4th/3rd century BC; Reiss-Engelhorn-Museen, Mannheim, Germany

Photo: Andreas Praefcke

In Greek Mythology, Apollo the sun god is represented wearing a laurel wreath on his head. The Ancient Greeks wore laurel wreaths on their heads as a sign of victory or during poetic meetings, though they could also be worn as a symbol of high status by the ruling class. 

Ancient Statue depicted wearing a Laurel Wreath

During the classical age, the laurel wreath was worn to show the attainment of a masters degree; the laurel was given to the scholar durning the graduation ceremony. This custom is still preformed today in various countries at the masters and doctorate levels.

The Latin Poet Ovid wearing a laurel wreath

DID YOU KNOW?

That the term "laureate" in "poet laureate" refers to being signified by the laurel wreath?

Pre-Raphaelite paintings depicting women wearing Laurel Wreaths