The word "parget" refers to a decorative plasterwork used to adorn walls and ceilings. The spelling of this word may seem peculiar, but it follows the English language's inconsistent pronunciation rules. The IPA phonetic transcription of "parget" is /ˈpɑːdʒɪt/. The letter "a" produces the "ar" sound, while the "g" is silent. The final "et" is pronounced as "it." Despite its confusing spelling, "parget" has remained a popular form of decorative plasterwork for hundreds of years.
Parget is a verb that refers to the act of applying decorative plasterwork or stucco onto the surface of walls or ceilings. This technique is commonly used to enhance and embellish the aesthetic appearance of buildings, both on their exteriors and interiors. Pargeting typically involves the creation of intricate and ornamental designs that are either imprinted onto the plaster or sculpted directly onto it.
In pargeting, a mixture of lime, sand, and water is often used to create a smooth and durable plaster. This mixture is then carefully applied onto the intended surface using various tools such as trowels and brushes. The plaster is then manipulated and shaped to form patterns and details that can range from simple geometric shapes to highly elaborate motifs, including plants, animals, and historical scenes.
Pargeting has a long history and has been utilized in different cultures and time periods. It can be found in various architectural styles, such as Tudor and Elizabethan designs, where it was particularly prominent in England. The technique has also been utilized in other countries, including Germany and the United States.
Overall, pargeting is a specialized skill that requires artistic talent and precision. It adds an element of beauty, sophistication, and uniqueness to buildings, making them stand out and showcasing the craftsmanship and creativity of the artisans who carry out this intricate plasterwork.
• Rough plaster laid on roofs; the coarse plaster composed of lime, hair, and cow-dung, used to line chimney flues.
• To cover with the rough plaster parget.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "parget" originated from the Old French word "pargeter", which means "to roughcast" or "to plaster". It further evolved from the Latin word "pargetum", which refers to a plastered wall. The term was commonly used in England during the medieval period to describe the plasterwork or decorative coating applied to walls. Over time, "parget" also came to encompass the painted or decorated designs that adorned these plastered surfaces.